Lion's Paw Scallop (also known as Nodipecten Scallop)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: Nodipecten nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole shell, fan-shaped with prominent radial ribs and nodes.
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole shell, fan-shaped with prominent radial ribs and nodes.
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 5-6 inches across, which is typical for a mature adult specimen. Adults of this species commonly range from 4 to 7 inches.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant coloration featuring rich shades of reddish-purple, burgundy, orange, and creamy white. The colors are completely natural and vivid, displaying distinctive chevron or flame-like patterns cascading down the ribs.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare as a pristine beach find, as they generally live in deeper subtidal waters rather than washing ashore intact.
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal waters to moderate depths, typically ranging from 10 to 45 meters. They inhabit sandy or gravelly bottoms, coral rubble, and seagrass beds in warm marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina, USA, through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil.
Description
A magnificent and heavy bivalve with a classic fan shape, characterized by thick, prominent radial ribs adorned with distinctive rounded knobs or spines. The surface has a rough, textured feel with intricate growth lines intersecting the bold ribs. The margin is deeply scalloped, matching the undulating profile of the exterior ribs.
Key Features
Distinguished by its heavy, robust shell structure, the prominent raised nodes or knobs along the primary radial ribs, asymmetrical auricles (ears) at the hinge, and vibrant purplish-red coloration.
Collector Value
Highly desirable and sought-after by shell collectors due to its striking appearance, vibrant colors, and sculptural form. Specimens with intense purple and red coloration and intact nodes command higher prices in the collector market, typically ranging from $20 to $60 depending on size and grade.
Condition Notes
Very good condition, graded as Fine to Gem. The shell is intact with strong structural integrity, rich natural color, and well-preserved nodes along the ribs with minimal wear.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many clams that burrow, 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 filter feeder, helping to clear suspended particulate matter from the water column. They serve as a food source for large marine predators including rays, octopuses, and sea turtles.
Similar Species
Pacific Lion's Paw (Nodipecten subnodosus), found on the Pacific coast of the Americas, which tends to be larger and heavier with more numerous ribs.
Beach Finding Tips
Finding a whole, undamaged Lion's Paw on the beach is quite rare since they live offshore. The best chance is after major tropical storms or hurricanes that churn up deeper offshore benthic habitats.