Zigzag Scallop / Dwarf Lion's Paw (alternate common names: Zigzag Pecten)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Euvola, Species: Euvola ziczac · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve, whole individual valve, fan or disc-shaped
Species
Euvola ziczac
Shell Type
Bivalve, whole individual valve, fan or disc-shaped
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 inches (1.9 cm) in length and width. This is a small specimen, likely a juvenile, as mature Euvola ziczac typically range from 1.5 to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Displays a striking cream or white base color overlaid with characteristic reddish-brown zigzag or radial striping. The umbo (beak) area exhibits a distinct pale purple or lavender tint. The colors are natural and well-preserved with a glossy sheen.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon, frequently found by dedicated snorkelers and beachcombers in the Caribbean, though high-grade whole valves are prized.
Habitat
Inhabits shallow subtidal waters, typically down to 30 meters, lying unattached on coarse sand, coral rubble, or shell gravel bottoms in tropical marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and down along the coast of South America to Brazil.
Description
A charming and compact bivalve featuring strong, rounded radial ribs and a distinctly asymmetrical auricle (ear) typical of the genus Euvola. The exterior displays prominent growth stages and an eye-catching zigzag color pattern radiating from the umbo. The margins are undulating, matching the external ribbing, giving it a classic scallop aesthetic.
Key Features
Distinctive zigzag or interrupted reddish-brown radial bands on a light background, paired with a flattened or slightly asymmetrical shell profile and strong, rounded ribs characteristic of the Euvola genus.
Collector Value
Moderately desirable among specialized bivalve and Pectinidae collectors due to its attractive color patterns. Generally valued at a low to moderate price range (a few dollars to $15 depending on exact size and perfection).
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. The shell is intact with minimal wear on the margins, strong original coloration, and no major boring holes or visible structural damage. Surface gloss remains relatively high.
Interesting Facts
Like many scallops, Euvola ziczac possesses dozens of tiny, glowing blue eyes along the mantle edge that can detect light and shadow. They are capable of active swimming by rapidly clapping their valves together to escape predators like sea stars.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important prey item for carnivorous gastropods, fish, octopuses, and sea stars. As filter feeders, they help clarify coastal waters by consuming suspended phytoplankton.
Similar Species
Nodipecten nodosus (Lion's Paw), which is larger and features prominent knobs on the ribs; and Argopecten irradians (Bay Scallop), which is more symmetrically rounded with more numerous, finer ribs.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along Caribbean and Florida Keys beaches after heavy storm surges or high tides, particularly in areas near seagrass beds and sandy shallows where shell drift accumulates.