Lion's Paw Scallop (Fragment)
Phylum: Mollusca | Class: Bivalvia | Order: Pectinida | Family: Pectinidae | Genus: Nodipecten | Species: Nodipecten subnodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), shell fragment, fan shape
Species
Nodipecten subnodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), shell fragment, fan shape
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
The visible fragment is approximately 1 inch in length, representing a small broken piece of a much larger adult shell that typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Rich terracotta brown to purplish-pink base coloration with prominent, lighter cream-colored radial ribs. The colors appear natural and well-preserved.
Rarity
Common as fragments, though whole specimens in gem condition are increasingly sought after.
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal marine waters attached by a byssus or resting unattached on sandy or gravelly bottoms, often near rocky reefs.
Geographic Range
Pacific coast of the Americas, specifically ranging from southern California down through the Gulf of California and along the coast of Mexico.
Description
This is a thick, durable shell fragment displaying the characteristic strong radial ribs and scaly nodular ridges typical of the Lion's Paw scallop. The sculptural texture is deeply grooved with a rich earthy hue.
Key Features
Distinguished by heavy, rounded radial ribs with distinctive nodes or scales along the ridges, and a solid, heavy calcified structure.
Collector Value
Low value due to being a fragment. Whole, undamaged specimens of Nodipecten subnodosus can command moderate prices among collectors.
Condition Notes
This is a worn fragment of a larger shell, showing smoothed edges from wave action. Collectibility grade is Poor due to being incomplete, but it exhibits nice color.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many bivalves, scallops like the Lion's Paw are capable of swimming short distances by rapidly clapping their valves together to expel water.
Ecological Role
Acts as a filter feeder, helping to clear particulate matter from the water column. Serves as a food source for various marine predators.
Similar Species
Nodipecten nodosus (Atlantic Lion's Paw), which is found in the Atlantic rather than the Pacific and has slightly different node arrangements.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along high-tide shell lines on beaches bordering rocky or reef-heavy waters in the Gulf of California, particularly after storms.
Notes
Mexico