In November 2016, Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) scientists co-authored a publication in Deep-Sea Research II on the effects of deep-sea bottom trawling on seafloor marine life, already stressed by the naturally low oxygen waters of the north Pacific. This is the first study to measure the effects on the fauna living on the soft-sediment seabed of Vancouver Island’s continental shelf and slope. Previous scientific research has focused on by-catch (species accidentally caught in the fishing net), particularly in areas where deep-water coral and sponge reefs occur.

This article is based on a University of Victoria Master’s thesis by Maéva Gauthier. The data originates from remotely operated...