Pecten

Pecten is a genus of large scallops or saltwater clams, marine bivalve molluscs in the family Pectinidae, the scallops. This genus is known in the fossil record from the Cretaceous period to the Quaternary period (age range: from 70.6 to 0.0 million years ago). Fossil shells within this genus have been found all over the world.

Anatomy

The anatomy of the Pecten genus is similar to that of other scallops. They have a bivalve shell with a hinge at the top. The shell is usually brightly colored and highly symmetrical. The inside of the shell is often shiny and contains a distinctive scalloped edge.

Habitat and Distribution

Pecten species are found in all of the world's oceans. They prefer the sandy or muddy bottoms of shallow coastal waters. Some species are also found in deeper waters.

Diet

Pecten species are filter feeders. They feed by opening their shells and filtering out small particles of food from the water. Their diet mainly consists of plankton.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Pecten species is sexual. They are hermaphrodites, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. They release eggs and sperm into the water, where fertilization takes place.

Economic Importance

Many species within the Pecten genus are commercially important. They are harvested for their meat and shells. The shells are often used in jewelry and other decorative items.

See Also

• Scallop
• Bivalvia
• Pectinidae