Flexuous Scallop
NameFlexuous Scallop
Scientific NameFlexopecten flexuosus
Common NameFlexuous Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusFlexopecten
Speciesflexuosus
Geographic DistributionPrimarily found in the Mediterranean Sea, extending into the adjacent Atlantic Ocean, including the Bay of Biscay and off the coast of Portugal. The image's caption 'Tombant du Lido' suggests a Mediterranean location.
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 20 to 40 mm in height (dorso-ventral dimension). The specimen in the image appears to be within this size range.
Identifying FeaturesKey features include its distinctive radial ribs (usually 10-15) which can appear somewhat wavy or 'flexuous', especially on the left valve. It has unequal auricles, with the anterior auricle of the right valve featuring a byssal notch for attachment. The overall delicate and somewhat flattened appearance of the left valve is also characteristic.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Poli, 1795)
Description
A small, delicate scallop shell, typically found attached to hard substrates. It exhibits a somewhat fan-shaped, inequivalve shell with distinct radial ribs and unequal auricles (ears). The shell is often translucent with pale, often pinkish or reddish hues, as seen in the image.
