Canada Bans Bottom-Contact Fishing To Protect Its Only Live Pacific Coral Reef

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has imposed an indefinite ban on all commercial and recreational bottom-contact fishing, including midwater trawling, to protect Canada’s only known live coral reef in the Pacific Ocean. This protective measure, which came into effect on February 14, 2024, intends to conserve the Lophelia Reef, which is situated in the Finlayson Channel on the Central Coast of northern British Columbia.

The Lophelia Reef, found in 2021, is the first and northernmost known live coral reef in Canada’s Pacific waters. It is a significant ecological discovery. It has exceptional ecological variety, a pure cold-water ecosystem, and cultural significance for native groups, including the Heiltsuk First Nations and Kitasoo Xai’xais.

Despite being relatively isolated and not heavily fished, there is evidence of coral damage, which suggests that bottom-contact fishing may have an impact. Therefore, the closure aims to safeguard this internationally unique spot, which is particularly susceptible to damage by fishing gear.

The Lophelia Reef is being considered a potential Parks Canada National Marine Conservation Area Reserve (NMCAR). It is currently in the feasibility assessment stage and is acknowledged in the Northern Shelf Bioregion Marine Protected Area’s Network Action Plan.

Reef mapping and discovery were made possible by the joint efforts of DFO, scientific specialists, and indigenous groups. This collaborative effort emphasizes how crucial it is to combine scientific research and indigenous knowledge to preserve marine ecosystems.

The closure reflects Canada’s dedication to ocean conservation and rapprochement with indigenous peoples. It is consistent with the government’s more extensive efforts to conserve marine biodiversity and lessen the effects of climate change, as well as the DFO’s Sustainable Fisheries Framework.

Quotes from important stakeholders emphasize the importance of protecting the Lophelia Reef, pointing out how it supports cultural heritage and stable ecosystems. According to Dr. Cherisse Du Preez, Head of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Deep-Sea Ecology Program, the reef is a hidden gem brimming with marine life, including a special coexistence with glass sponge reefs.

The closure of Canada’s only living coral reef in the Pacific is a proactive step toward protecting marine ecosystems’ long-term health and resilience for future generations.

Reference: Fisheries and Oceans Canada

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