Beautiful Scallop
NameBeautiful Scallop
Scientific NameAequipecten opercularis
Common NameQueen Scallop, Queenie, Beautiful Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusAequipecten
Speciesopercularis
Geographic DistributionNortheast Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Norway southwards to the Mediterranean Sea and along the coast of West Africa.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapebivalve
Average Size (mm)50
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive fan shape with numerous (18-22) rounded radial ribs. The left valve is typically more convex than the right. Possesses unequal auricles. Known for its highly variable and often striking coloration. The shells in the image show typical coloration and ribbing for this species.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
Two fan-shaped bivalve shells, commonly known as scallops, resting on sand. One shell is predominantly off-white to cream with irregular dark brown blotches and streaks, while the other is a vibrant orange-red with similar darker markings. Both shells exhibit prominent, rounded radial ribs extending from the umbo to the shell margin, and distinct auricles (ears) on either side of the hinge line. The shells appear to be the upper (more convex) valves.
