Lion's Paw Scallop (upper/left valve fragment)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (fragment of an upper/left valve); fan-shaped convex morphology
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (fragment of an upper/left valve); fan-shaped convex morphology
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in length. This is a small fragment of a species that typically reaches 3-6 inches as a full adult.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant reddish-purple to maroon base color with white calcification in recessed areas. The pattern consists of heavy, corded radial ribs with lighter-colored interstitial spaces.
Rarity
Uncommon as a whole beach find; fragments are occasionally found after storms. A complete, double-valved specimen is rare for beachcombers.
Habitat
Found in marine environments, typically at depths of 10 to 150 feet. They prefer hard substrates, rubble, and coral reef fringes where they can attach to the sea floor.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, ranging from North Carolina and Florida through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico down to Brazil.
Description
This specimen is a distinct fragment of a Lion's Paw, showcasing the heavy, knobbed radial ribs that give the species its name. The texture is coarse and rugged, with a thick, heavy shell wall. The interior shows a glimpse of the pearly, though weathered, nacreous layer.
Key Features
Distinguished by the thick, prominent, corded radial ribs and the characteristic 'knobs' or nodes (though eroded here). The deep purple-red pigment is specific to N. nodosus.
Collector Value
Low in this condition ($1-$2 range). However, a large, 'Gem' quality, deep orange or purple complete specimen can fetch $30-$100 or more among specialized collectors.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair. The shell is a beach-worn fragment missing the hinge, ears (auricles), and the lower half of the valve. Significant environmental erosion and bleaching are present.
Interesting Facts
The Lion's Paw Scallop is highly prized by collectors for its brilliant colors. Unlike many other scallops, it is a 'sessile' adult, meaning it stays attached to one spot rather than swimming freely.
Ecological Role
A filter feeder that helps clear the water of particulate matter. It provides a micro-habitat for encrusting organisms like sponges and barnacles on its thick exterior.
Similar Species
Nodipecten fragosus (Northern Lion's Paw) is very similar but usually has larger, more frequent knobs and is found in more northern Atlantic waters.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in shell piles after heavy tropical storms or hurricanes. In Florida, they are most common on the southwest coast (Sanibel) and the Keys after high surf events.