Maine’s diverse aquatic ecosystems, ranging from the Gulf of Maine’s depths to its freshwater rivers and lakes, support a rich array of organisms. These environments are home to creatures adapted to a variety of conditions, including fluctuating temperatures, salinity levels, and depths. Examples include commercially important fish, marine mammals, invertebrates, and various plant species that form the foundation of the food web.
The health of these populations is crucial to Maine’s economy, particularly its fishing and tourism industries. These species also play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of their respective habitats. Historically, they have sustained coastal communities and continue to be essential to the state’s identity and cultural heritage.
