CFF Research at the 2026 International Pectinid Workshop

The International Pectinid Workshop (IPW) was held in April 2026 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, bringing together researchers, industry members, and fisheries stakeholders focused on scallop science and management. The workshop marked 50 years of international collaboration and continued its role as a forum for sharing applied research across the scallop fishery.

CFF researchers contributed to a series of presentations and posters spanning ecological research, monitoring technology, data analysis, and fisheries innovation within the Atlantic sea scallop fishery.

Nathan Shivers presented research utilizing loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) foraging patterns to characterize changes in scallop distribution across the Mid-Atlantic Bight. The work examined predator behavior as an indicator of shifting scallop range.

Andrew Corso presented an evaluation of electronic monitoring systems in the U.S. Atlantic sea scallop fishery. The project assessed the use of camera systems to monitor fishing activity, improve data collection, and support fisheries management.

Liese Siemann presented research using machine learning and large optical datasets from CFF’s HabCam surveys to study scallop distributions and swimming behavior. The work focused on using open-source AI algorithms to process more than 1.3 million HabCam images to model scallop distribution and behavior across age groups.

Ryan Munnelly presented research demonstrating the long-term efficacy and detectability of large-scale scallop transplanting in southern New England. The study, led by Farrell Davis, examined the persistence and spatial structure of transplanted scallop populations over time.

Farrell Davis presented a fishermen-led injury prevention strategy focused on ergonomic interventions within the scallop fishery. The project emphasized practical approaches to improving safety and working conditions at sea.

The seasonal survey team, led by Luisa Garcia, contributed two posters to the workshop. The first poster summarized research on epibiont assemblages found on sea scallops from eastern Georges Bank and how those assemblages can influence meat weight. The second poster highlighted recent research on the importance of spring bottom temperatures for maintaining typical seasonal productivity patterns.

Together, these presentations reflected ongoing work aimed at improving fisheries data, understanding scallop population dynamics, and developing applied strategies to support sustainable management of the resource.

Visit the IPW website for further information on the workshop.