NA - Significance of scallop genetics and environment on juvenile viability in culture - a trans Atlantic research cooperation

University of Bergen has since the 1980s been one of the leading Norwegian organisations for development of scallop aquaculture. National and international research cooperation is an important component for developing a sustainable scallop industry. We wi ll therefore increase the collaboration with scientists dedicated to bivalve research in USA and Canada, and the aim is to develop a new project to initiate a long-term cooperation. All partners could greatly benefit from increased trans-Atlantic cooperat ion. The great scallop (Pecten maximus) has great potential as an aquaculture species in Norway. The Act related to Sea Ranching promotes scallop culture and the scallop is recognised as a target species by the Aquaculture Programme (NFR). Likewise in Ca nada (Québec and New Brunswick) government authorities and industry promote scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) culture. Availability of large numbers of high quality juveniles is regarded the main factor hindering the development of scallop industries in Europe and North America. Important to scallop culture is the quality (viability) of juveniles and their ability to cope in a culture environment. Broodstock genetics and environmental growth conditions are determining factors to successful production o f scallops. In the project we will focus on relationships between physiology, genetics and juvenile performance. Similar challenges are phased for the two species as both are adapted to a life in temperate to cold regions.