The Gulf of St. Lawrence - A Unique Ecosystem

The Stage for the Gulf of St. Lawrence Integrated Management (GOSLIM)

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

1.1. Why is the Gulf of St. Lawrence unique?

2. OVERVIEW OF THE ECOSYSTEM

2.1. Physical Systems

2.1.1. Physical oceanography
2.1.2. Water properties
2.1.3. Sound environment
2.1.4. Geological components

2.2. Biological Systems

2.2.1. Macrophytes
2.2.2. Plankton
2.2.3. Benthic community
2.2.4. Reptiles
2.2.5. Fish
2.2.6. Marine birds
2.2.7. Marine mammals

2.3. How the Gulf of St. Lawrence ecosystem works
2.4. Human systems around the Gulf

2.4.1. Governance
2.4.2. Human settlements
2.4.3. Human and industrial activities

3. OVERVIEW OF ISSUES IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE

3.1. SUMMARY OF STRESSORS, ISSUES OF CONCERN, KEY HUMAN ACTIVITIES

4. SUMMARY

Abstract

This report presents the Gulf of St. Lawrence as a unique marine ecosystem that features complex oceanographic processes and also maintains a high biological diversity of marine life. The information provided covers physical systems such as the properties of water, physical oceanography and geological components. The biological aspects include descriptions of macrophytic, planktonic and benthic communities, reptiles, fish, marine birds and mammals. There is also a discussion on the human components such as settlement, industrial activity and governance. By providing relevant information in this format the report highlights the challenge of managing multiple human activities within the context of a dynamic, diverse and unique marine ecosystem.

Unless otherwise credited, the photos are the property of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Published by :
Oceans and Science Branch
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
©Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, 2005
Cat. No. FS 104-2/2005
ISBN 0-662-69499-6
The Gulf of St. Lawrence, A Unique Ecosystem