Cat's Paw Scallop
NameCat's Paw Scallop
Scientific NameLyropecten nodosus
Common NameCat's Paw Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusLyropecten
Speciesnodosus
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina (USA) south through the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and down to Brazil.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)100
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, fan-shaped shell, and most notably, the prominent, often knobby or nodulose radial ribs that give it its common name. The irregular, wavy shell margin and the robust, thick shell are also key identifiers.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
The Cat's Paw Scallop is a large, distinctive bivalve mollusk known for its robust, fan-shaped shell. Its most striking feature is the presence of prominent, often nodulose or knobby radial ribs, which give it a 'cat's paw' or 'lion's paw' appearance. The shell is typically thick and heavy, with an irregular, undulating margin. Coloration is highly variable but often includes shades of red, orange, brown, and purple, frequently with lighter bands or patches.
