Scientists search for climate change answers in Quebec sea floor
The Hidden World Beneath Quebec’s Saguenay Fiord
MONTREAL — Far below the seals and belugas that dive gracefully through Quebec’s Saguenay fiord, there are small creatures burrowing in the sea floor mud that scientists believe play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change.
Exploring the Depths
Earlier this month, scientists from the United Kingdom and Université Laval spent several days on the fiord’s bumpy waters, grabbing samples from 200 metres below in a quest to track the life in the mud.
Dr. Adam Porter, a post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Exeter, explained that the sea floor holds a hidden world of life that is essential for maintaining a healthy planet.
The Convex Seascape Survey
The research is part of the Convex Seascape Survey, a partnership exploring how the sea floor regulates climate through the sequestration of carbon, and the role that small animals in the mud play in keeping the planet healthy.
Rebecca Howman, a PhD student at Université Laval, described the challenges of collecting sea floor samples in the Saguenay fiord, highlighting the importance of understanding the intricate ecosystem beneath the surface.
A World Teeming with Life
After collecting samples from the fiord’s bottom, the researchers discovered a tiny world teeming with life, including worms, brittle stars, and bivalves. These small creatures act as “little ocean gardeners,” maintaining the health of the sea floor and supporting the marine ecosystem.
Carbon Sequestration and Climate Change
One crucial role of these creatures is to store carbon in the sea floor by consuming or trapping organic matter that falls from above. This process is essential for mitigating the effects of climate change and preserving the delicate balance of the marine environment.
Porter emphasized the importance of protecting the sea floor from activities that disturb its delicate ecosystem, such as trawling and dredging. By identifying key areas for carbon sequestration, researchers hope to influence decision-makers to prioritize the conservation of these vital habitats.
Protecting the Planet
As countries around the world commit to protecting 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030, including the sea floor, the research conducted in the Saguenay fiord serves as a reminder of the hidden wonders that lie beneath the surface.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 24, 2025.
Morgan Lowrie, The Canadian Press
