Atlantic Deep Sea Scallop / Lion's Paw variant
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Argopecten, Species: Argopecten irradians · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), fan-shaped, single valve
Species
Argopecten irradians (Bay Scallop) or related Pectinidae
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), fan-shaped, single valve
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1.5 inches in width and length, which is slightly smaller than average for mature bay scallops. Adults typically range from 2 to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Rich purplish-brown base with radiating ribs featuring lighter white or cream-colored highlights along the crests. The coloration is natural and shows vibrant hues typical of live-collected or freshly beached specimens.
Rarity
Common, frequently found by beachcombers in regions where seagrass and bay habitats are prevalent.
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, typically found in seagrass beds, sandy bottoms, and bays, ranging from the intertidal zone to shallow subtidal depths.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, extending from Nova Scotia down along the Atlantic coast of the United States and the Gulf of Mexico.
Description
A charming and compact bivalve shell featuring a classic fan shape with distinct, strong radiating ribs. The exterior showcases an attractive deep purple-brown coloration with fine secondary striations along the prominent ribs. The margins are crenulated, mirroring the internal ridges of the shell.
Key Features
Rounded fan shape, prominent radiating ribs (typically around 17 to 20 for this genus), asymmetrical ears at the hinge, and vibrant purple-brown coloration.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, highly popular among beginner shell collectors and crafters due to its bright colors and pleasing symmetry.
Condition Notes
Good condition with minor natural wear on the umbo. The edges show slight chipping, but the structural integrity is largely intact, grading as Fine.
Interesting Facts
Scallops are unique among bivalves because they are capable of swimming by rapidly clapping their valves together to expel water, and they possess dozens of simple blue eyes along the mantle edge that can detect light and motion.
Ecological Role
Scallops serve as an important prey species for crabs, fish, and sea birds, and they act as filter feeders that help maintain water clarity in coastal ecosystems.
Similar Species
Calico Scallop (Argopecten gibbus), which tends to have more mottled patterns and a slightly more convex valve, and the Rough Scallop.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along bay-side beaches, grass flats, and areas with drift lines following high tides or storms. Searching near seagrass beds at low tide yields the best results.