Coral & Sponge Conservation Strategy for Eastern Canada

New research

The advent of cutting-edge technologies such as remotely operated underwater vehicles allow us to explore coral and sponge communities previously out of reach. Although recent research has significantly contributed to our understanding and appreciation of corals and sponges, there is still a great deal to learn about the distribution, diversity, reproduction and resilience of these animals.

The conservation and protection of corals and sponges is important to Canadians because many of the marine creatures that have a functional relationship with them are of commercial importance, making corals and sponges a key factor in sustainable fisheries management. Coral and sponge communities play a vital ecological role in maintaining diverse and healthy aquatic ecosystems, contributing to species richness and biodiversity.

Current knowledge

Given our limited knowledge of coral and sponge biology and potential for harmful human-induced impacts, it follows that a heightened level of conservation and protection is required. The Coral and Sponge Conservation Strategy for Eastern Canada was developed for several reasons:

• to outline the current state of knowledge of corals and sponges;
• to provide the international and national context for coral conservation; and
• to outline new and existing research and conservation efforts in eastern Canadian waters.

The goal

The Strategy identifies conservation, management and research objectives common to all Fisheries and Oceans Canada management regions in eastern Canada, including the Gulf region, consistent with existing legislation and policy through a shared focus on ecosystem-based management. The goal of the Strategy is to facilitate the conservation and protection of cold-water coral and sponge species, communities and their habitats in the Atlantic and Arctic oceans of eastern Canada. Protection of these species will be achieved through collaboration and integrated ocean management, providing sustainable economic and ecological value to all Canadians.

The above text is from the executive summary of the Conservation Strategy. You can read the entire report online.