Winter Skate Relative Occurrence in the St. Lawrence 2004-2010

Spatial distribution of Winter Skate relative occurrence is based on annual DFO groundfish research surveys from 2004 to 2010. Data are aggregated into a grid of 100 km² cells, calculating the probability of catching the species per set. The dataset supports monitoring of marine resource status and biodiversity in the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Use Cases

• Model spatial distribution of relative occurrence across 100 km² grid cells to identify high-probability habitats.
• Analyze temporal trends in catch probability from 2004 to 2010 survey data for population monitoring.
• Integrate relative occurrence data with seabed classification from associated technical reports for habitat feature correlation studies.
• Use the grid-based aggregated catch and set data for spatial analysis of groundfish survey protocols in the Gulf region.

Strengths

• Data derived from standardized annual DFO groundfish surveys conducted over a 7-year period from 2004 to 2010.
• Spatial aggregation uses a consistent 100 km² grid cell system for analysis.
• Linked to peer-reviewed scientific publication (Hydrobiologia, 2014) and DFO technical reports detailing survey methodology.

Limitations

• Sample data and specific column structure (e.g., individual catch records, environmental variables) are unavailable for review.
• Temporal coverage is limited to a specific 7-year window and may not reflect current conditions.
• Geographic scope is restricted to the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence, limiting broader applicability.

Provenance

Source

Fisheries and Oceans Canada, from annual multidisciplinary groundfish research surveys.

Collection Method

Standardized bottom trawl survey protocols; relative occurrence calculated as ratio of sets with species to total sets, aggregated to 100 km² grid cells.

Time Range

2004 to 2010

Freshness

Data covers 2004-2010; last metadata update was 2026-03-24.

Geography

Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada