Lion's Paw Scallop (fragment)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: Nodipecten nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve fragment with a fan/disc shape
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve fragment with a fan/disc shape
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1-2 inches for the visible fragment; whole adults typically range from 3 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant deep reddish-orange fading to white, showing natural coloration with distinct dark patterning along the hinge line and prominent raised nodes characteristic of the species.
Rarity
Common as fragments, but whole, undamaged specimens are considered uncommon to rare finds for beachcombers.
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal waters to moderate depths, attached to hard substrates or resting on coarse sand, coral rubble, and shell gravel.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil.
Description
A colorful shell fragment displaying the distinctive heavy ribs and knobby, nodular surface texture characteristic of the Lion's Paw Scallop. The exterior exhibits a striking reddish-orange hue with a contrasting dark hinge area, while the broken edges reveal the dense, porcelain-like internal layer.
Key Features
Prominent surface nodes on the radial ribs, thick and heavy shell structure, and deep coloration ranging from red to orange and purple.
Collector Value
Low collector value due to being a broken fragment. Whole, gem-quality specimens with vibrant color can command higher prices among shell enthusiasts.
Condition Notes
This is a worn shell fragment missing the majority of the valve. It is heavily broken and suitable primarily as a casual beach find rather than a collectible specimen (Poor to Fair grade for the fragment itself).
Interesting Facts
Lion's paws are capable of swimming short distances by rapidly clapping their valves together to expel water, helping them escape predators like starfish.
Ecological Role
Acts as a filter feeder helping to maintain water quality, and serves as an important food source for various marine predators including rays, sea stars, and carnivorous gastropods.
Similar Species
Atlantic Calico Scallop (Argopecten gibbus) and Bay Scallop (Argopecten irradians), which are generally smaller, thinner, and lack the prominent heavy nodes.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along high-tide shell lines on tropical and subtropical beaches, particularly after storms or rough surf that churns up offshore shell beds.