Invasive Species

There are 21 species known to be invasive in the southern Gulf and eight more in the northern Gulf. Climate change, navigation (including oil and gas exploration and fishing vessel movements), the deliberate movement of live fish and harvested fish for processing and the degradation of natural habitats have all increased the prevalence and success of marine invasions and range extension.

When a new organism is introduced to an ecosystem, negative and irreversible changes may result. Within the Gulf of St. Lawrence itself, these may include a change in biodiversity, loss of valued species (especially those already endangered or at risk), impacts on aquaculture and fishing landings and loss of amenity values enjoyed by coastal dwellers and tourists.