ASFB Home > Potential Changes in Prey Population Structure Following Removal of Predators by Fishing

The Importance of Protecting the Bowie Seamount Ecosystem off the Pacific Coast of Canada

Dick Beamish and Dick Carson

Department Of Fisheries and Oceans, VANCOUVER, CANADA

Theme: TH5

Bowie Seamount rises close to the surface just inside of Canada's 200 mile limit off British Columbia. This discrete ecosystem contains a diversity of species similar to the species composition in coastal habitats. It is an ideal site for an experimental ecosystem research area. Permitted studies could test ideas relating to the natural regulation of the abundance of key species. The site is also ideal to monitor the impacts of climate and climate change. The species on the Seamount also dominate the landed value of fisheries in the coastal areas, yet little is known about recruitment processes or why many of the species live between 50 and 220 years. An experimental research area will provide an opportunity for cooperative research and partnerships with the community of interested public. A public and scientific approach to understanding how the Bowie Seamount works in a changing climate provides a solid foundation for the evolving need of ecological forecasting.