New Zealand Scallop
NameNew Zealand Scallop
Scientific NamePecten novaezelandiae
Common NameNew Zealand Scallop
FamilyPectinidae
GenusPecten
Speciesnovaezelandiae
Geographic DistributionEndemic to New Zealand, found around the North and South Islands, Stewart Island, and the Chatham Islands.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)100
Identifying FeaturesLarge, robust, fan-shaped shell; distinct inequivalve nature (one flat, one convex valve); 14-18 prominent, rounded radial ribs; well-defined auricles; and highly variable external coloration.
Dietfilter-feeder
Rarityrare
Author CitationReeve, 1853
Description
A bivalve mollusc characterized by its robust, fan-shaped shell. It is inequivalve, meaning one valve is typically flat or slightly convex, while the other is deeply convex. Both valves feature prominent, rounded radial ribs and distinct auricles (ears) near the hinge. The species exhibits highly variable coloration.
