One of the most valuable seafood species in Nova Scotia is under threat from natural predators in a renowned fishing area. The question remains whether this is a temporary situation or a sign of ongoing challenges.
A recent stock assessment conducted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada for sea scallops in Scallop Fishing Area (SFA) 27A on Georges Bank reveals significant changes in biomass levels and natural mortality rates. These changes were drastic enough for the DFO to reduce the total allowable catch in December of the previous year.
The fully recruited biomass dropped to 13,570 tonnes in 2024 from 31,095 tonnes in 2023, after remaining stable within healthy levels since the 2000s, according to a scientific report. Fully recruited biomass refers to mature scallops suitable for commercial harvesting.
The recruit biomass, which represents the total mass of new scallops in the population, decreased by 72% from 2023 to 2024.
The report attributes these “significant interannual changes” in the SFA stock condition to environmental variations.
According to the report, research vessel surveys from Canada and the United States indicate a rise in predator abundance, particularly sea stars and crabs, within areas where scallops are typically found. The presence of these predators in high scallop density regions contributes to increased natural mortality rates.
Monitoring Potential Trends
Following these findings, an interim total allowable catch (TAC) of 2,100 tonnes was established for 2025, down from 4,000 tonnes in 2024.
Susanna Fuller, Oceans North’s vice-president of conservation and projects, expressed concern over the substantial decline within a year. She emphasized the need for several more years of data to determine if the surge in sea star and crab populations is a long-term trend.
Fuller highlighted the importance of DFO’s response in aiding with scallop recruitment by reducing the TAC to maintain a sufficient biomass for reproduction.
She noted that fluctuations in scallop populations are not uncommon, underscoring the critical role of the upcoming years in assessing the situation.
Industry Adaptability
The report evaluates the stock condition based on recent data and models, offering insights into future trends. Presently, scientists do not anticipate any changes for the following year, as assessments typically occur annually.
Despite the reduced TAC, companies operating in SFA 27A are not expected to face significant financial impacts. The Seafood Producers Association of Nova Scotia President mentioned that these companies have flexibility due to licenses allowing them to fish in various locations across the Scotian Shelf.
He elaborated that the ability to adjust fishing efforts based on yield and cost was beneficial last year and is likely to continue to ensure overall sustainability. Additionally, the current strong scallop prices are alleviating some of the industry’s pressures.
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