As part of the collaborative project Apoqnmatulti’k (Mi’kmaw for “we help each other”), American eel (katew), American lobster (jakej) and Atlantic tomcod (punamu) are being tracked to better understand their movements in the Bay of Fundy and Bras d’Or Lake. Joint participation and engagement among Mi’kmaw, local and western knowledge holders is key to enabling better stewardship of these species.

The Bras d’Or Lake is an ecologically rich and historically important inland sea in Cape Breton, N.S. Mi’kmaw communities rely on this area for subsistence and ceremonial fisheries, and the practice and adaptation of Mi’kmaw fishing knowledge.

American eel is an integral part of Mi’kmaw culture, and American lobster is an important food source for the region, but little is known about the movements of either species. Eel and lobster are being tracked to better understand seasonal migrations and habitat use in relation to environmental changes. As part of this study, the Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources (UINR) is leading the application of Mi’kmaw knowledge to identify, preserve and protect habitats used by these species.

The Bay of Fundy is a highly productive, tidal-driven ecosystem that supports resident and migratory species. American eel and Atlantic tomcod are an integral part of commercial, recreational and Mi’kmaw fisheries in this region. Eel are harvested year-round as a rich food source and medicinal product, and tomcod provide valuable sustenance during the winter months.

Research questions and project design are co-developed to reflect the values of all partners to facilitate knowledge sharing and learning across cultures. Data collected will be shared with communities, managers, and decision-makers to support the stewardship of aquatic resources.

The project is funded by an NSERC Strategic Partnership Grant. It is co-led by the Ocean Tracking Network (OTN), UINR, The Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq/Mi’kmaw Conservation Group (CMM/MCG), the Marine Institute of Natural & Academic Science (MINAS), Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Acadia University and Dalhousie University.

Visit the OTN Data Warehouse to learn more about tomcod and eel tracking.

You can learn more about this project on the Apoqnmatulti’k website.