Georges Bank Middle Atlantic Closed Areas References Summary Status Landings PDF Version Sea Scallops by Dvora Hart Sea scallops, Placopecten magellanicus , are found in western North Atlantic continental shelf waters from Newfoundland to North Carolina. Recreational fishing is insignificant, and takes place primarily in Maine where shallow-water scallop beds most commonly occur.
Scallops grow rapidly during the first several years of life.
During this time span, the number of meats per pound is reduced from greater than 100 to about 23. Sexual maturity commences at age 2, although scallops younger than age 4 probably contribute little to total egg production. Eggs become buoyant after fertilization, and larvae remain in the water column for four to eight weeks before settling to the bottom. The commercial fishery for scallops occurs year round, and is conducted using primarily dredges and otter trawls. The Canadian fishery is managed using individual transferable quotas.