Its main feature is a sphagnum bog that is situated in an ancient channel of the Ottawa River and is a remarkable boreal-like ecosystem normally not found this far south.

The area provides habitat for many species, including beaver, muskrat, waterfowl, and the rare spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata).

[3] The name "Mer Bleue" (French, meaning "blue sea") is thought to describe the bog's appearance when it is covered in morning fog.

At least nine species of orchids (family Orchidaceae) are found in Mer Bleue along with a variety of cottongrasses (Eriophorum spp.)

The marsh areas around Mer Bleue are characterized by plants such as cattails (Typha latifolia), alders (Alnus rugosa), willows (Salix spp.

There is a wide mixture in the vegetation from early succession poplars and shrubs to some very large mature specimens of white pine, maple, and ash.

A section of this area includes a variety of hard and softwood plantations established by the Canadian Forest Service.

Flooding is controlled naturally through beaver dams and the ability of sphagnum to absorb large amounts of water.

Flow velocities of ground and surface waters are very low given the impermeability of the underlying clay soils, the absorption qualities of sphagnum and the presence of numerous beaver dams.

Aquatic furbearers such as beaver (Castor canadensis), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), and mink (Neogale vison) live in the surrounding marshes.

It is also home to: woodchuck (marmot), raccoon, skunk, porcupine, vole, mole, squirrel (red, grey/black), chipmunk, weasel, cottontail hare, snowshoe hare, moose, white-tailed deer, red fox, coyote, black bear, and possibly Canada lynx and eastern wolf in the remote woodland areas alongside the bog (their presence is yet to be determined).

Rare species include the spotfin shiner (Cyprinella spiloptera), the beetles Stenolophus magnacephalus and Agonum darlingtoni, and the spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata).