Final Report on Scallop Census: Conclusion of Scallop Survey
News Article: Sea Scallop Survey on R/V Hugh Sharp Yields Promising Results
In August 2022, the research cruise onboard the R/V Hugh Sharp, focused on marine shell growth analysis, was led by Dr. Jane Smith. The cruise, which is in its final leg, aimed to shed light on the growth patterns of scallops, a prized and tasty shellfish.
The survey team encountered a range of ocean floor types, from mussel beds to sand dollars, brittle stars, sand, and mud. One of the most significant findings was the discovery of large numbers of small scallops, an indicator of recruitment (growth and survival), which are crucial for the sustainability of scallop surveys.
The team recorded the second highest catch of small scallops since 2013, with one tow capturing an estimated 60,000 1-year-olds. One of the most exciting catches of the trip consisted of an estimated 40,000 2-year-old scallops in a single dredge tow. Scallops can be hidden in sandy tows and are found by taking a clump of sand, smashing it down, and spreading it around.
Aside from the scallops, the team also encountered a variety of marine life. Some scallops were covered with barnacles, while others showed unique patterns and colours, including brown, yellow, purple, and various types of vertical and arc-like banding. A larger white scallop with a Dalmatian appearance caused by tiny cavities covering the top shell was encountered, and an off-white scallop with brown, fuzzy, horizontal arcs was observed.
The weather cooperated for the most part, despite a sporadically rainy morning. Working outside in the rain is possible if the wind and waves aren't dangerous. During the respite, the team found a productive way to pass the time: annotating HabCam pictures.
However, the team did encounter rough weather at times and hid around Martha's Vineyard to wait for the wind and waves to die down. The survey, which has been focusing on marine shell growth analysis, is set to provide valuable insights into the growth patterns of scallops, contributing to the sustainable harvesting of this prized shellfish.
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