Lion's Paw Scallop (alternatively known as Knobby Scallop)
Phylum: Mollusca; Class: Bivalvia; Order: Pectinida; Family: Pectinidae; Genus: Nodipecten; Species: N. nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (Fan-shaped single valve fragment)
Species
Nodipecten nodosus (Confidence: 95% based on sculpture)
Shell Type
Bivalve (Fan-shaped single valve fragment)
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in width. This represents a juvenile or medium-sized specimen, as adults can reach up to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly tan to light brown with cream-colored highlights on the nodes. The color appears somewhat faded or sun-bleached. Natural specimens often range from deep purple to bright orange and red.
Rarity
Uncommon. While the species is well-known, finding an intact specimen while beachcombing is rare because they typically inhabit deeper waters.
Habitat
Marine; typically found in Caribbean waters on sandy or rubble bottoms and near coral reefs at depths of 30 to 150 feet. They are rarely found in the intertidal zone.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, ranging from North Carolina and Florida through the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and south to Brazil.
Description
An iconic Caribbean bivalve characterized by a heavy, thick shell with strong radial ribs. The most striking feature is the presence of large, hollow, blister-like nodes or 'knobs' that occur at intervals along the ribs, giving the shell the appearance of a feline paw. The surface also exhibits fine concentric growth lines and secondary ribbing.
Key Features
Large, prominent hollow nodules (knobs) along 7 to 9 heavy primary radial ribs; thick calcified structure; characteristic 'ears' (auricles) at the hinge (partially missing here).
Collector Value
Low for this specific fragment ($1-$5) due to erosion and lack of intense color. However, large, 'gem' quality specimens with deep purple or bright orange coloration and intact spines can fetch $50 to over $100.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. This is a beach-worn fragment lacking the hinge and auricles. Many of the delicate tubular knobs have been eroded or broken at the tips. The presence of sand inside some nodules suggests it spent significant time in the surf.
Interesting Facts
The Lion's Paw was historically prized by collectors for its vibrant colors. Unlike many other scallops, this species is a 'sessile' adult, meaning it typically stays in one place rather than swimming actively through the water column using jet propulsion.
Ecological Role
Active filter feeders that help clarify water by consuming phytoplankton. They provide a hard substrate for smaller organisms like bryozoans and sponges to attach to. They are prey for large gastropods and sea stars.
Similar Species
Nodipecten fragosus (Northern Lion's Paw) which is generally found in more northern Atlantic waters and tends to have more numerous and smaller nodes.
Beach Finding Tips
Look for these after heavy storms or hurricanes that bring deep-water debris toward the shore. They are most commonly found on Florida's Gulf Coast and the Keys.