Bay Scallops

Bay scallops, Argopecten irradians, are found on the bottom in protected bays and shallow flats, often in eelgrass beds.  An interesting species, the bay scallop possesses 30-40 blue eyes allowing it to detect predators. If predators are detected, scallops are capable of moving relatively quickly using jet propulsion created by rapidly closing their shells with the large adductor muscle.  This adductor muscle is also what every scallop eater knows and loves.

These animals supported an important recreational and commercial fishery but harvests have dropped off and been highly variable since the mid-1980's.  They only live for approximately two years and can only reproduce in their second year.  Thus, harvest of these animals is limited to those that exhibit a clear growth line (caused by winter, when food is scarce, much like a tree ring) and to the autumn - after spawning has presumably occurred.  

To assist in restoration efforts of the bay scallop the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension has been involved with a number of projects.  These projects include the stocking of pediveliger larval scallops and development of spawner sanctuaries to improve bay scallop spawning success. 

More information on bay scallop restoration will be available soon...