About This Project

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

We have identified a new digenean trematode parasite in bay scallops taken from across coastal North Carolina. Despite having never been documented before, this parasite has been found in a disturbingly large proportion of collected scallops. In other scallop species, trematodes are known to cause varying levels of tissue damage, resulting in reduced growth, fitness, and survivorship. This parasite proliferates in the gill tissues of infected scallops, potentially compromising gill function and impeding the uptake of oxygen and nutrients. If the prevalence of this parasitic infection is sufficiently high, negative effects conferred by infection could have major consequences for an already ailing fishery.

What is the significance of this project?

North Carolina's bay scallops have experienced years of low numbers due to a red tide event that decimated populations in 1987. A boom in predatory ray populations and declining seagrass habitat have been pinpointed as some of the reasons why scallop populations have yet to recover. Researchers and policy makers are focused on finding out why the scallops populations are suffering and developing ways to sustain populations for the future.

Pervasive parasitism in bay scallops could be yet another important factor preventing the recovery of this commercially and economically important species. The proposed research will help us better understand the impacts of this parasite on scallops, and may ultimately provide information that allows for better managment of scallop stocks.

What are the goals of the project?

Research Objectives

1. Assess infection prevalence by this parasite in scallop populations throughout their range. Surveys will allow us to see the range of this parasite, identify infection hotspots, and link prevalence with site characteristics.
2. Determine parasite life cycle. Knowing the life cycle is key to understanding spatial and seasonal patterns of infection.
3. Determine the effects of infection on host growth, behavior, and mortality. Lab observations suggest that infection may increase mortality by compromising gill function. We want to quantify parasite effects on host fitness with a series of lab and field experiments.

• A scientific publication detailing the results of our inquiries

• Valuable information for managers

• Classroom materials and videos for use in local schools