Lion's Paw Scallop (also known as Nodic Scallop)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: N. nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan-shaped
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan-shaped
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 5-6 inches in length and width, which is a very good size for this species. Adults typically range from 4 to 8 inches.
Color & Pattern
Displays a striking coloration with creamy white or yellowish base hues overlaid with prominent reddish-brown or purple-pink patches and streaks along the prominent ribs. The colors appear mostly natural with minor weathering typical of beach or shallow water specimens.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare as a well-preserved whole shell, especially outside of specialized dive locations or commercial fisheries.
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal waters, typically on sandy or gravelly bottoms, often associated with coral reefs and offshore ledges at depths ranging from 5 to 50 meters.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, extending from North Carolina through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil.
Description
A magnificent and heavy bivalve featuring a robust, rounded fan shape characterized by distinctive raised radial ribs adorned with characteristic knob-like nodes or spines. The auricles (ears) at the hinge are unequal, and the margins are deeply scalloped and fluted.
Key Features
Distinguished by the prominent, rounded nodules (knobs) on the radial ribs, a thick heavy shell structure compared to other scallops, and unequal auricles at the hinge line.
Collector Value
Highly sought after by shell collectors due to its striking appearance, large size, and tactile sculptural nodes. Prices generally range from $15 to $50 depending on exact color vibrancy and perfection.
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. The shell is intact with well-preserved structural features and natural coloration, showing minimal wear on the prominent nodes and ribs, and moderate weathering overall.
Interesting Facts
Lion's Paw scallops are capable of swimming short distances by clapping their valves together to expel water, a unique defense mechanism among bivalves. They also possess dozens of simple blue eyes along the mantle edge that can detect light and shadow.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active filter feeder helping to maintain water clarity in marine ecosystems. They serve as prey for various marine carnivores including octopuses, sea stars, and large fish.
Similar Species
Pacific Lion's Paw (Nodipecten subnodosus), found on the Pacific coast of the Americas, which tends to be larger and has different node distributions.
Beach Finding Tips
Finding a whole, undamaged Lion's Paw by beachcombing is quite rare because they inhabit deeper subtidal waters; they are more commonly acquired through divers, local fishermen, or shell markets.