Lion's Paw Scallop (Fragment)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: Nodipecten nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), specifically a shell fragment featuring prominent radial ribs and characteristic nodes.
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), specifically a shell fragment featuring prominent radial ribs and characteristic nodes.
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in length for this visible fragment. Whole adults of this species typically range from 3 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant reddish-orange base color with lighter cream or white striations highlighting the raised ribs. The colors are natural and rich, showing typical coloration for the species.
Rarity
Common for fragments, though intact whole specimens require more dedicated searching or diving.
Habitat
Found in shallow marine waters, typically attaching themselves temporarily to hard substrates or living on sandy to coral rubble bottoms in sub-tidal zones.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and down to Brazil.
Description
This is a colorful fragment of a bivalve shell displaying strong radial ribs, typical of the sculptured ornamentation found in the Pectinidae family. The surface features tactile ridges and nodules characteristic of robust pectinids.
Key Features
Strong radial ribs, prominent nodular projections along the ribs, and a striking reddish-orange coloration.
Collector Value
Low value due to being a fragmentary piece. Complete, undamaged specimens with vibrant coloration are highly prized by collectors.
Condition Notes
This is a worn shell fragment rather than a complete valve. Collectibility grade is Poor due to incomplete status, but the color remains bright and attractive.
Interesting Facts
Scallops are unique among bivalves because they can swim by rapidly clapping their valves together, expelling water to propel themselves away from predators.
Ecological Role
Scallops serve as an important food source for various marine predators including fish, rays, and sea stars, contributing to the benthic food web.
Similar Species
Atlantic Bay Scallop (Argopecten irradians), which lacks the prominent distinctive nodes characteristic of Nodipecten nodosus.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along high-tide shell lines on tropical and subtropical beaches in the Caribbean or Florida, especially after storms.