Calico Scallop
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Argopecten, Species: A. gibbus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan shape
Species
Argopecten gibbus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan shape
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in width, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant pattern of mottled and flamed reddish-pink and white markings resembling calico cat fur, set against a lighter pinkish-white base. The colors appear completely natural and retain strong saturation with sharp color boundaries.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, typically found in sandy or shelly substrates, seagrass beds, and offshore shoals from the low intertidal zone down to depths of about 150 feet.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina down through the Florida coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, and into the Caribbean Sea.
Description
A charming and brightly colored bivalve featuring a classic fan shape with approximately 18 to 21 distinct, rounded radial ribs. The exterior displays a delightful patchwork of deep red and pink flame patterns. The hinge area features asymmetrical ears (auricles), typical of the Pectinidae family, with one side slightly longer than the other.
Key Features
Distinguished by its approximately 18-21 prominent, rounded radial ribs, nearly equivalve convex shape, and the characteristic mottled reddish calico coloration that lacks the distinct prominent spines found in related species like the Lion's Paw.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, highly popular among beginner and intermediate beachcombers and shell crafters. Exceptional color morphs or pristine paired valves command slightly higher interest.
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. The shell is intact with strong color retention and well-defined ribs. Minor surface wear near the margins and umbo, but overall a very attractive and structurally sound collector specimen.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many bivalves that burrow or cement themselves, Calico Scallops are capable of swimming actively by rapidly clapping their valves together to expel water, allowing them to escape predators like starfish and sea snails.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important prey species for numerous marine predators including fish, crabs, and sea stars. They are filter feeders that help maintain water clarity by consuming phytoplankton from the water column.
Similar Species
Atlantic Bay Scallop (Argopecten irradians), which tends to have a more circular outline and fewer ribs (usually 17), and the Rough Scallop (Aequipecten muscosus), which has more pronounced scaly ribs.
Beach Finding Tips
Best found by beachcombing along Gulf and Atlantic coasts of Florida, especially following storms or high tides. Look along the high tide wrack line where small bivalves wash ashore.