The Nautilus Log
Langford's Scallop

Langford's Scallop

NameLangford's Scallop
Scientific NameArgopecten langfordi
Common NameLangford's Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusArgopecten
Specieslangfordi
Geographic DistributionPacific Ocean, primarily known from the waters around Japan and potentially other parts of the Indo-Pacific region.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapebivalve
Average Size (mm)Approximately 30-50 mm in height/length, though some individuals may grow slightly larger. The larger shell in the image appears to be around 30-40 mm.
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its distinctive fan shape, the presence of numerous (typically 18-22) prominent and rounded radial ribs, and its often vibrant and variable coloration. The auricles are typically unequal in size.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author CitationDall, 1908

Description

Two colorful, fan-shaped scallop shells with prominent radial ribs, held in a hand on a sandy beach. The larger shell displays vibrant yellow-orange and pink hues, while the smaller one is paler with similar color patterns. These are single valves, likely collected from the intertidal or shallow subtidal zone.

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