Ocean Sciences and Aquatic Climate Change Adaptation

New Report on Ocean Acidification in the Scotian Shelf LOMA

Learn about Sustaining Arctic Observing Networks, an initiative for pan-Arctic scientific observation

Summer ice is receding earlier, and Inuit hunters report sighting many more killer whales in Hudson Bay than in the past. Scientists believe that climate change is helping killer whales displace other apex predators (e.g., humans, polar bears) in the area’s ecosystem.

Photo: © Gretchen Freund

Ocean scientists at Fisheries and Oceans Canada undertake research and monitoring to provide advice on Canada's fisheries management, marine protected areas, species at risk, small craft harbours and maritime safety and security.

Aquatic issues related to climate change, such as ecosystem shifts, ocean acidification, hypoxia (low oxygen), changes to ocean currents, sea ice variability and other factors impact fisheries resources. Rising sea levels, severe storms, inundations and erosion that threaten coastal communities and coastal infrastructure concern researchers. A five year science program is underway to assess climate change impacts as emerging risks or opportunities, and to devise tools and technologies to help the Department adapt appropriately.

Aquatic Climate Change Adaptation Services Program (2011-2016)

Videos: Aquatic Climate Change; Ocean Acidification; Hypoxia.

Earlier research on climate change themes:

Oceanographic Activities

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is an important contributor to national and international oceanographic programs that provide data on global ocean processes for use in scenarios and climate models for risk management and advice on fisheries resources.