Calico Scallop (fragment)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Argopecten, Species: A. gibbus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve fragment; originally fan-shaped
Species
Argopecten gibbus
Shell Type
Bivalve fragment; originally fan-shaped
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approx. 1.25 inches (32mm) wide; overall species ranges from 1 to 3 inches in diameter.
Color & Pattern
Mottled pattern of chocolate brown, reddish-maroon, and cream. The concentric banding visible is a combination of color pigmentation and growth lines. The interior is likely white with a purplish tint near the hinge, though obscured.
Rarity
Very Common (as a fragment); whole specimens are Common on SC beaches after high surf.
Habitat
Subtidal offshore waters on sandy or shelly substrates, typically ranging from 30 to 200 feet deep.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, from North Carolina to South America, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Description
A worn fragment of a Calico Scallop showing characteristic 'calico' mottling. The piece exhibits the radial ribs and concentric growth lines typical of the Pectinidae family. While weathered, the vibrant dark pigments remain visible against the calcified base.
Key Features
Distinctive mottled/spotted color pattern (unlike the solid-colored Bay Scallop), roughly 19-22 radial ribs on a whole valve, and equal-sized 'ears' (auricles) at the hinge.
Collector Value
Minimal ($0 USD). Whole, 'Gem' condition specimens with bright pink or purple hues may sell for $1-5, but fragments are primarily of interest to hobbyist crafters.
Condition Notes
Poor for a collector, but Good for a beachcomber. This is a beach-worn shard/fragment with significant erosion on the edges. There is no hinge or auricle intact. No signs of drill holes from predatory gastropods.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many clams, Calico Scallops can swim by rapidly snapping their shells together to expel water. They also possess dozens of tiny bright blue eyes along their mantle edge that detect changes in light and motion.
Ecological Role
Filter feeders that clean the water column. They are a vital food source for sea stars, crabs, and bottom-dwelling fish. The species is also a commercially fished seafood product in Florida.
Similar Species
Argopecten irradians (Bay Scallop), which is usually more drab/gray and less mottled; and Nodipecten nodosus (Lion's Paw), which is much larger with distinct knobs.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in Myrtle Beach after a strong offshore storm or 'Nor'easter.' Scallops are often tossed up in the 'wrack line' alongside sea whip coral and sea sponges.
Notes
Myrtle Beach SC