Aquatic Ecosystems
We can all play a role in helping to keep Canada’s waters and aquatic ecosystems healthy for our present and future. Learn more about how we protect and conserve marine and freshwater environments in the Maritimes Region.
Most requested
Services and information
Fish and fish habitat protection
Request a review of your project near water in Nova Scotia or explore measures to protect fish and fish habitat.
You can also find out how we engage with partners and stakeholders to support good stewardship of fish and fish habitat, including through grant and contribution funding.
Acts and regulations
Learn about the Acts and regulations that guide our activities:
Species at risk
Learn about aquatic species at risk, our recovery efforts, and programs to protect and conserve aquatic species.
Aquaculture management
Explore the department’s role regulating aquaculture to protect fish, fish habitat and at-risk aquatic species.
Aquatic invasive species
Learn what aquatic invasive species are, the problems they cause in Canada, and how they can be managed.
Marine planning and conservation
Find out how we protect marine and coastal areas or explore various ocean spaces and their potential uses.
Features
The Scotian Shelf-Bay of Fundy Bioregion
Explore the potential marine conservation network in the Scotian Shelf-Bay of Fundy Bioregion.
Habitat Highlights
Learn about how DFO collaborates with partners, Indigenous Peoples, and stakeholder communities to protect fish and fish habitat.
Marine spatial planning
Find out how we manage Atlantic Ocean spaces to achieve ecological, economic, cultural and social goals.