Assistant Professor University of Maine Orono, Maine, United States
Atlantic sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) is the second largest fishery in Maine, primarily through wild harvest. Farming is a promising way to meet year-round market demands, create jobs, and reduce ecological impacts of harvest, but relies on wild-caught juveniles as larval survival in hatcheries is low for unknown reasons. My collaborative research group explores the role of larval and tank microbiomes in hatcheries compared to wild scallop veligers. In addition to basic and applied microbiome research, the research team meets with industry partners weekly to discuss results, trends, generate real-world-problem-driven project designs, and collaborate on research, education, and student training.
