The Nautilus Log
Delectopecten macrocheiricola

Delectopecten macrocheiricola

NameDelectopecten macrocheiricola
Scientific NameDelectopecten macrocheiricola
Common NameNone widely established; sometimes referred to as a deep-sea scallop or commensal scallop.
FamilyPectinidae
GenusDelectopecten
Speciesmacrocheiricola
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, primarily known from waters around Japan.
Habitatdeep-sea
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 10 to 20 mm in height.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely thin and fragile shell, translucent white color, subcircular shape, small anterior ear, and fine concentric growth lines. Its deep-sea habitat and commensal association are also key characteristics.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author CitationHabe, 1951

Description

A small, translucent, and fragile bivalve shell, appearing whitish or pale. It exhibits fine concentric growth lines and a distinct, though small, anterior ear. The overall shape is subcircular to ovate, and it is highly compressed.

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