Vieira patagonica (Zygochlamys patagonica King & Broderip, 1832): una nueva pesquería en la plataforma continental argentina.

Abstract

Patagonian scallop (Zygochlamys patagonica King Broderip, 1832): A new fishery in the Argentine continental shelf. We present preliminary information on a new fishery of patagonian scallop (Zygochlamys patagonica King Broderip, 1832) in the Argentine Continental Shelf. A research program was conducted jointly by INIDEP and a fishing company during 1995 with the F/V Erin Bruce. The vessel, fishing equipment and processing on board are described. A total of 7235 fishing tows were performed during 246 days at sea. Seven new beds were located between 38º 50' S and 42º 30' S, along the 100-m isobath. Beds are discrete. Differences in the size structure by bed suggest that recruitment consists of sporadic pulses. Proportion of scallops and invertebrate by-catch also varies among bed. According to average CPUE, which ranges from 291 to 4,927 kg of commercial size scallops per towing hour, beds present different commercial interest. Available information indicates that a commercial fishery of the patagonian scallop is viable. We emphasize the continuation of studies in order to manage and develop the patagonian scallop fishery in Argentina.