Marine Heatwaves Hurt Coastal Ecosystems & Economies

Ocean heatwaves lead to ecosystem collapse and costly fishery closures.

Researchers at the University of Victoria found that a record-breaking marine heatwave between 2014 and 2016 caused ecosystem collapse, marine species distribution, and costly fishery closures along North America’s west coast.

The findings highlight the need for ongoing research and conservation to protect ocean health and coastal communities.

"The marine heatwave resulted in unprecedented ecodlogical disturbance across thousands of kilometres of North America’s west coast."

— Dr. Samuel Starko, Former UVic Postdoctoral Fellow

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