Pecten jacobaeus

Pecten jacobaeus

Pecten jacobaeus is a species of bivalve mollusk belonging to the Pectinidae family, commonly known as the Mediterranean scallop or Saint James scallop. This species is native to the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. It is recognized for its distinctive fan-shaped shell, which has been a symbol of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.

Description

The Pecten jacobaeus has a shell that can reach a size of about 120 millimeters. The two halves (or valves) of the shell are not identical, or equivalve. The left valve is more convex and has a more rounded edge, while the right valve is flatter. The shell's color can vary from reddish to yellowish or white, often with darker radial bands.

Habitat and Distribution

The Pecten jacobaeus is found in the Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent Atlantic Ocean. It prefers sandy or muddy bottoms, at depths between 10 and 100 meters. The species is particularly common in the Adriatic Sea and around the Italian Peninsula.

Life Cycle and Behavior

The Pecten jacobaeus is a hermaphrodite, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. The species reproduces through broadcast spawning, where eggs and sperm are released into the water. After fertilization, the resulting larvae are planktonic, drifting in the sea until they are ready to settle on the seabed and grow into adult scallops.

Human Use

The Pecten jacobaeus has been harvested for centuries for its meat and shell. The shell, in particular, has cultural significance, being associated with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. It is often depicted in art and used as a religious symbol.

Conservation

While the Pecten jacobaeus is not currently considered endangered, it faces threats from overfishing and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts are focused on sustainable fishing practices and habitat protection.

See Also

• Pectinidae
• Mediterranean Sea
• Santiago de Compostela