The confluence of the cold Labrador and warm Gulf Stream currents across the shallow bathymetry of a series of gravelly underwater plateaus (ideal environments for Cod nurseries) south of Newfoundland island.

As geological formations of the North American Continetal Shelf, these relatively shallow ledges range from 15 to 91 metres in depth.

The confluence of marine geology and oceanic gyres generated an explosive plankton bloom that anchored a rich, marine ecosystem web of fish and whale populations.

The early modern “invention” of the Grand Banks, facilitated massive and unprecedented extractions of Gadus morhua (cod) from the waters of the north Atlantic.

The invention of this oceanic plantation, the result of a confluence between cartography, commerce, and cultural agency, contributed to capitalising modern European and North American societies, creating conflict between the bourgeoning Western empires.