This is a visual explainer based on the Wikipedia article on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Read the full source article here. (opens in new tab)

The Gulf of St. Lawrence

A Hydrographic and Ecological Expedition

Explore the Gulf ๐Ÿ‘‡ Key Features ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!


When you are ready...
๐ŸŽฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ŸŽฎ

Gulf Overview

Geographic Context

The Gulf of St. Lawrence is a significant marine body that borders the Canadian provinces of Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the French territory of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. It serves as a critical link between the Great Lakes system and the vast Atlantic Ocean, connected via the St. Lawrence River.

Dimensions and Characteristics

Covering an expansive area of approximately 226,000 square kilometers (87,000 square miles), the Gulf features considerable depth, with an average depth of 152 meters (499 feet) and a maximum depth reaching 530 meters (1,740 feet). Its waters hold a volume of about 34,500 cubic kilometers (8,300 cubic miles).

French Connection

The Gulf is notable for its connection to France through the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. This geographical and political link adds a unique dimension to the region's cultural and historical landscape.

Geographic Scope

Defining Boundaries

The Gulf's boundaries are defined by the Labrador Peninsula and Quebec to the north, Newfoundland to the east, the Nova Scotia peninsula and Cape Breton Island to the south, and the Gaspรฉ Peninsula and New Brunswick to the west. This extensive coastline encompasses diverse geological and ecological zones.

Island Archipelagoes

Numerous islands dot the Gulf, including Anticosti Island, Prince Edward Island, the Magdalen Islands archipelago, and the French territories of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. These islands contribute significantly to the Gulf's complex geography and marine ecosystems.

River-Gulf Delineation

There is ongoing discussion regarding the precise demarcation between the St. Lawrence River and the Gulf. Geographers and hydrographers often consider Pointe des Monts on the Cรดte-Nord region of Quebec as the boundary, with the Estuary upstream and the wider Gulf downstream.

Defining the Gulf's Extent

International Hydrographic Definition

The International Hydrographic Organization defines the Gulf's boundaries with specific lines connecting geographical points. These include the northeastern boundary from Cape Bauld to the Northeast Ledge and Cape St. Charles, the southeastern boundary from Cape Canso to Red Point and Pointe Blanche, and the western boundary along the meridian of 64ยฐ30'W.

Northeast Boundary: A line from Cape Bauld (Kirpon Island) to the Northeast Ledge, then to Cape St. Charles in Labrador.

Southeast Boundary: A line from Cape Canso to Red Point (Cape Breton Island), continuing across Cape Breton Island to Pointe Blanche (Saint Pierre), and then to Morgan Island.

West Boundary: The meridian of 64ยฐ30'W from Pointe-Jaune to Magpie, encompassing Anticosti Island.

Cartographic Perspectives

Historical cartographers and explorers, including Samuel de Champlain, have long debated the precise boundary between the river and the gulf. Modern administrative bodies like Fisheries and Oceans Canada define a planning area that covers most of the Estuary and Gulf, highlighting its vastness and ecological significance.

Major Waterways

Rivers Feeding the Gulf

Several significant rivers contribute freshwater and nutrients to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. These include the Miramichi River, Natashquan River, Romaine River, Restigouche River, Margaree River, Humber River, and Mingan River, each playing a role in the Gulf's dynamic environment.

Connected Bays and Channels

The Gulf is characterized by numerous inlets and channels, including Chaleur Bay, Fortune Bay, Miramichi Bay, St. George's Bay, Bay St. George, Bay of Islands, and the Northumberland Strait. These features create diverse coastal habitats and influence water circulation patterns.

Passages to the Ocean

Major Straits

The Gulf connects to the Atlantic Ocean through several key straits, facilitating the exchange of water masses and marine life. These include the Jacques Cartier Strait, Honguedo Strait, Strait of Belle Isle, and Cabot Strait.

Jacques Cartier Strait: Between the Cรดte-Nord shore and the north of Anticosti Island.

Honguedo Strait: A wide passage between the Gaspรฉ Peninsula and Anticosti Island.

Strait of Belle Isle: Between Labrador and Newfoundland, varying in width and depth.

Cabot Strait: Approximately 56 miles wide, connecting the Gulf to the Atlantic between Cape Ray, Newfoundland, and Cape North, Cape Breton Island.

Canso Causeway

The Strait of Canso, historically an outlet between Cape Breton Island and mainland Nova Scotia, is now largely bisected by the Canso Causeway, a roadway constructed in 1955. This causeway significantly altered the natural water exchange between the Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean.

Submerged Landscapes

The Laurentian Channel

A prominent feature of the Gulf's floor is the Laurentian Channel, carved by glacial erosion during past ice ages. This deep channel, extending approximately 1,250 km, influences water circulation and temperature, with deep, cooler waters entering the Gulf and moving up the channel.

Hypoxic Conditions

Over the 20th century, the deeper waters at the end of the Laurentian Channel, particularly within the St. Lawrence estuary, have experienced increasing hypoxia (low oxygen levels). This environmental condition has significant implications for the marine ecosystem.

Historical Significance

Indigenous Heritage

The shores of the Gulf have been inhabited for millennia by various First Nations, who utilized its rich resources and waters for transportation. Their deep connection to the region predates European arrival.

European Exploration

The first documented European voyage into the Gulf was by French explorer Jacques Cartier in 1534. He named the surrounding lands "The Country of Canadas," contributing to the eventual naming of Canada itself.

Basque Whaling

In the 16th century, Basque whalers established a significant presence in the Gulf, particularly at Red Bay. Their activities, though historically important, faced economic challenges that led to a decline in their operations by the late 16th century.

Marine Ecosystems

Diverse Habitats

The Gulf of St. Lawrence is characterized by a dynamic environment with a wide range of hydrodynamic conditions, including seasonal ice cover, fronts, gyres, and significant freshwater input. These factors create diverse habitats supporting a rich array of marine life.

Coral Conservation

Areas like the Western Honguedo Strait Coral Conservation Area exemplify efforts to protect sensitive marine habitats. These areas are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the health of the Gulf's ecosystems.

Marine Mammal Sanctuary

Thirteen Species

The estuary and gulf are home to thirteen species of cetaceans. This rich diversity includes iconic species such as the Northern bottlenose whale, beluga whale, sperm whale, and various dolphin species, as well as large baleen whales like the blue whale and humpback whale.

  • Northern bottlenose whale
  • Beluga whale
  • Sperm whale
  • Atlantic white-sided dolphin
  • White-beaked dolphin
  • Orca
  • Long-finned pilot whale
  • Harbour porpoise
  • North Atlantic right whale
  • Common minke whale
  • Blue whale
  • Humpback whale
  • Fin whale

Climate Dynamics

Winter Ice Formation

During winter, the St. Lawrence River and Gulf experience extensive ice formation, beginning in December and covering the entire gulf by January and February. This ice cover influences marine conditions and navigation.

Navigation and Ice

While ice presents challenges, it also aids navigation by calming wave action and reducing spray, thereby mitigating the risk of ship icing. Understanding these weather patterns is crucial for maritime activities in the region.

Human Interaction

Maritime Infrastructure

The Gulf and its connected waterways host significant maritime infrastructure. Quebec's ports are primarily located along the St. Lawrence Seaway, with key Gulf ports including Blanc-Sablon, Harrington Harbour, Natashquan, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Mingan, Port-Menier, and Cap-aux-Meules.

Conservation Efforts

Canada actively manages protected areas within the Gulf. This includes national parks like Mingan Archipelago, Forillon, Prince Edward Island, Kouchibouguac, Cape Breton Highlands, and Gros Morne National Parks, alongside migratory bird sanctuaries and marine protected areas.

Key Ports

Coastal Access Points

The Gulf of St. Lawrence is dotted with numerous ports and coastal communities that are vital for regional economies and maritime activities. These ports facilitate trade, fishing, and transportation across the vast waterway.

Ports along the Cรดte-Nord Shore include:

  • Blanc-Sablon
  • Harrington Harbour
  • Natashquan
  • Havre-Saint-Pierre
  • Mingan
  • Port-Menier (Anticosti Island)
  • Cap-aux-Meules (Magdalen Islands)

Conservation Areas

Marine Protected Zones

The Western Honguedo Strait Coral Conservation Area exemplifies efforts to protect sensitive marine habitats. These areas are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the health of the Gulf's ecosystems.

Avian Sanctuaries

Established in 1919, Canada's first Migratory Bird Sanctuaries were created on Bonaventure Island, the Bird Rocks of the Magdalen Islands, and Percรฉ Rock. These sites are vital for the conservation of migratory bird populations.

Graveyard of the Gulf

St. Paul Island, located off Cape Breton Island, is known as the "Graveyard of the Gulf" due to its history of numerous shipwrecks. Access to the island is managed by the Canadian Coast Guard, highlighting its unique and challenging environment.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio
Click here to open the "Gulf Of St. Lawrence" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about gulf_of_st._lawrence while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Gulf of St. Lawrence Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice for Scholars

This document has been generated by an advanced AI system, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Gulf of St. Lawrence for students at the Master's degree level and beyond.

This content does not constitute professional geographic, oceanographic, or historical advice. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source, the information should not be considered a substitute for consultation with qualified experts or for primary source verification. Always cross-reference with official documentation and scholarly works for critical applications.

The AI and its developers are not responsible for any interpretations, decisions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein. Users are encouraged to exercise critical judgment and consult authoritative sources.