Leptopecten velero
NameLeptopecten velero
Scientific NameLeptopecten velero
Common NameVelero Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusLeptopecten
Speciesvelero
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, primarily off the coast of California (USA) and Baja California (Mexico).
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)10
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (typically under 20mm), thin shell, distinct auricles, numerous radial ribs (often nodulose or scaly), and highly variable coloration. The left auricle is typically larger than the right.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author CitationHertlein, 1935
Description
Two small, single valves of the scallop species Leptopecten velero are displayed. One valve is predominantly off-white to cream with subtle reddish-brown speckles, while the other exhibits a more vibrant and intricate pattern of radial bands in dark brown, orange, and lighter cream hues. Both shells are suborbicular, characteristic of scallops, featuring distinct auricles (ears) on either side of the umbo and numerous radial ribs, some of which appear to have small nodules or scales. A ruler is visible for scale, indicating that the shells are approximately 10-12 mm in height.
