Our ecosystem summer survey of the Scotian Shelf and Bay of Fundy is complete! Abiding by COVID-19 guidelines, we hauled 202 tows, 281 species and gathered important information.

During the survey, data is collected on all captured fish and invertebrate species, the physical and chemical properties of seawater and the type and abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton (very small and microscopic plants and animals).

We sample fish and invertebrate species captured in the bottom trawl. These species are identified, counted, and weighed.

For most fish and invertebrates caught, length and weight measurements are taken to monitor condition or plumpness. Some species are sampled to determine sex and maturity, and to identify their diet and feeding habits.

These surveys are important tools to track populations and the ecosystem over time. The results are summarized each year and used to inform the management of marine resources, species at risk and conservation measures.