Lion's Paw Scallop
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: Nodipecten nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell valve, fan-shaped disc
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell valve, fan-shaped disc
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 3.5 inches in diameter, which is medium for this species. Adults typically range from 3 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Warm creamy white base with striking reddish-brown and orange patches radiating outward along the major ribs. Colors appear largely natural with mild sun-bleaching near the prominent nodes and edges.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare depending on the location; intact specimens with good coloration are prized finds for beachcombers.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal zones to moderately deep waters, typically attached to hard substrates, coral rubble, or rocks in tropical and subtropical marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and down to Brazil.
Description
A magnificent and heavily sculpted bivalve featuring strong, elevated radial ribs adorned with distinctive hollow knobs or spines, resembling the paw of a large feline. The margins are deeply fluted, and the surface displays a rough, textured micro-sculpture between the primary ribs.
Key Features
Distinguished by its robust, rounded fan shape, strongly elevated radial ribs, and most importantly, the prominent swollen knobs (nodules) that cap the ribs.
Collector Value
Moderately high. Highly sought after by shell collectors for their striking sculptural form and vibrant color variations. Specimens in gem condition can command higher prices.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. The structure is mostly intact with minor wear along the extreme outer edges. Colors are well-preserved with some fading, placing it in the Fine collector grade.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many bivalves that remain sessile, Lion's Paw Scallops are capable of swimming short distances by rapidly clapping their valves together to expel water, helping them escape predators like sea stars.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active suspension feeder filtering plankton from the water column, serving as an important prey item for large marine predators, and providing hard substrate surfaces for encrusting organisms.
Similar Species
Pacific Lion's Paw (Nodipecten subnodosus), which is found in the Eastern Pacific and tends to grow larger with more numerous ribs.
Beach Finding Tips
Rarely found fully intact directly on sandy beaches due to their deep-water habitat; best found by diving, checking offshore reef rubble, or beachcombing immediately following severe tropical storms.