International Scallop Scientists meet in Douglas

Scientists from sixteen countries gathered in Douglas in April for the 23rd International Pectinid Workshop, a conference devoted to all things scallops.

The Isle of Man’s scallop fisheries have progressed positively in recent years. Innovative ways to sustainably harvest and protect the island’s king and queen scallop stocks have been developed through a cooperative approach, involving Bangor University, DEFA Fisheries, and the Scallop Management Board. These science-based management strategies, rooted in the work of the Port Erin Marine Laboratory, yielded good local results and were discussed at the conference, alongside international ideas.

This year’s workshop not only highlighted the Isle of Man’s advancements in scallop fisheries, but also reinforced the importance of global collaboration in marine science and sustainable fishing practices. Topics covered included the latest methods for estimating scallop numbers, juvenile recruitment, spatial management, closed areas, new lower-impact harvesting methods, aquaculture production, and climate change effects on scallops.

A highlight of the conference was the special fishing industry session, supported by DEFA to enable regional fishermen to attend free of charge, and featuring discussions among fishers, managers, and scientists.

Delegates were treated to a tour of the island and its specialities, thanks to food and drink sponsors including Isle of Man Seafoods, Bushy’s, Fynoderee, and Manx Moos.

The International Pectinid Workshop began in Ireland in 1976 and has been held worldwide. This was its second visit to the Isle of Man, previously hosted in Port Erin in 1980. Dr. Andy Brand, a founder member of the workshop, expressed excitement about reconnecting with colleagues and discussing recent developments in scallop aquaculture and fisheries.

The event was sponsored by the Isle of Man’s Department of Environment, Food, and Agriculture, OceanWeb Ltd, Isle of Man Seafoods, Manx Fish Producers’ Organisation, Macduff Shellfish, Bushy’s, Fynoderee, and Manx Moos. Find out more on the conference website.