Spatial and temporal distribution of sea scallop, Placopectenmagellanicus in the baie des Chaleurs, Quebec, Canada

摘要

The first studies regarding sea scallop spat collecting activities in Gaspesie were done by the private sector in the mid 1980s and by universities in early 1990s in a small part of the peninsula. Between 1999 and 2001, new activities were realized along the coast from Miguasha to Gaspe. Since 2002, more precise factors were examined in the two most successful sectors. Within the last 2 years, the vertical and temporal distributions of the two scallop species (Placopecten magellanicus and Chlamys islandica) and other associated organisms were examined. In the two sectors of interest, Bays of Tracadigache and Gaspe, a mean of 1200 to 3400 giant scallops/bag was collected in the best sites. The mean number of scallop spat per bag decreased between the autumn and following summer and could be as high as 80% in Tracadigache. The temporal and vertical distribution patterns changed with sector and year so it is still difficult to distinguish a pattern and further analyzes, and trials may be needed in the future. The two sectors are describe as their quality to minimize biofouling and other non productive by catch.