Chapter 17 Bay scallop and calico scallop fisheries, culture and enhancement in eastern North America

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of calico and bay scallop fisheries, aquaculture, and enhancement efforts in eastern North America. Scallops are commercially important shellfish worldwide with the average total catch between 1988 and 1997 at 522,894 pounds of meats. Five species––namely, sea, bay, Icelandic, weathervane, and calico scallop contribute to the major wild fisheries in North America with minor fisheries for two other species. Bay scallops in the eastern United States are considered as a delicacy, especially in the local markets where the fresh product is consumed. Its high demand in these markets guarantees a continued high value. Loss of habitat through the decline of seagrass beds and the degradation of habitat through algal blooms such as “brown tide” may contribute to the decline of bay scallop stocks. The success of bay scallop aquaculture is influenced by stringent, governmental leasing regulations, grow-out problems such as fouling, and market development. The annual landings of the calico scallop fishery will probably continue at relatively low levels compared to 1984. The calico scallop has less value than the bay scallop; the continued landings ensure its place in the scallop market.