Animal Profiles
Molluscs

Scallops

Pectinidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Scallops are bivalves capable of moving by clapping their shells. This account follows the Atlantic sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) of the northwestern Atlantic.

Placopecten magellanicus, the representative described in this account.

Placopecten magellanicus, the representative described in this account.

At a glance

Location
Atlantic sea scallops live on marine seabeds from eastern Canada towards the eastern United States.
Habitat
Coast
Diet
Filter feeder
Food
The gills gather suspended food from seawater.

Classification

Common name
Scallops
Browse group
Molluscs
Scientific name or taxon
Pectinidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Pectinida
Family
Pectinidae
Source classification
Bivalvia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • It is a bivalve mollusc.
  • Shell clapping can produce movement.
  • The gills collect suspended particles.

Habitat and range

Atlantic sea scallops live on marine seabeds from eastern Canada towards the eastern United States. Depth and suitable bottom conditions vary across this range.

Appearance and adaptations

Two broad shell valves enclose the animal, with one valve more curved than the other. The mantle fringe bears sensory structures around the shell opening.

Diet and behaviour

The gills gather suspended food from seawater. Shell closure can expel water and propel the scallop away from a threat, although much time is spent resting on the seabed.

Sources

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