Ecology of a subarctic river and its associated estuary: The Great Whale River ecosystem

The available information is reviewed and synthesized on the following aspects of the Great Whale River and the area of southeastern Hudson Bay (SEHB) influenced by its freshwater plume: (1) distribution of salinity, water masses, freshwater discharge and ice cover; (2) distribution of carbon and nutrients; (3) plankton abundance, biomass, production and assemblages; (4) abundance, production and diversity of the sea ice ecosystem; (5) benthic abundance and diversity; (6) fish diversity; (7) marine mammals; and (8) global warming impacts on freshwater and marine environments. This synthesis may provide an ecological basis for the integrated management of the Great Whale River ecosystem, and for other rivers in the subarctic region, especially in the context of the ‘Plan Nord’ of the Quebec government.