Icelandic Scallop
NameIcelandic Scallop
Scientific NameChlamys islandica
Common NameIcelandic Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusChlamys
Speciesislandica
Geographic DistributionNorth Atlantic and Arctic waters, including areas around Iceland, Greenland, Norway, Canada (Newfoundland, Labrador), and the northeastern United States.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)Up to 100-120 mm (10-12 cm) in shell diameter.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive fan-shaped shell with numerous strong radial ribs. The living animal displays a mantle edge fringed with numerous small, black ocelli (eyes) and translucent sensory tentacles, clearly visible in the image. It has prominent auricles (ears) at the hinge.
Dietfilter-feeder
Rarityrare
Author Citation(O. F. Müller, 1776)
Description
The Icelandic Scallop is a bivalve mollusk characterized by its fan-shaped shell with prominent radial ribs. The image displays a living specimen, revealing its mantle edge adorned with numerous small, black ocelli (eyes) and translucent tentacles. The shell itself is a warm yellowish-brown to orange-brown, showing distinct growth lines. It is partially embedded in or resting on a textured, light-colored substrate, likely sand or detritus.
