April 9, 2025 — A new study from the University of Maine’s Aquaculture Research Institute and Darling Marine Center is helping to refine best practices for growing Atlantic sea scallops, a species of increasing interest to Maine’s aquaculture sector.
Published in the academic journal Aquaculture, the research compares two scallop farming methods, ear-hanging and lantern net culture, over a complete grow-out cycle to determine which approach yields the best results for commercial growers. The study, led by UMaine postdoctoral researcher Christopher Noren, provides new insights into how each method influences scallop size and adductor muscle weight, a key factor in market value.