Pecten maximus
Pecten maximus, commonly known as the Great Scallop or King Scallop, is a species of scallop, a type of marine bivalve mollusk in the family Pectinidae. This species is native to the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, specifically from the north coast of Norway to the Iberian Peninsula.
Description[edit | edit source]
The Great Scallop can grow up to 17 cm in size, making it one of the largest scallop species. It has a fan-shaped shell with radiating ribs and a slightly wavy edge. The upper shell is usually reddish-brown, while the lower shell is pale or white.
Habitat and Distribution[edit | edit source]
Pecten maximus is found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, from the north coast of Norway to the Iberian Peninsula. It inhabits a variety of habitats, from sheltered bays to exposed coasts, and from the intertidal zone to depths of up to 100 meters.
Diet[edit | edit source]
The diet of Pecten maximus consists mainly of plankton, which it filters from the water using its gills.
Reproduction[edit | edit source]
The Great Scallop is a hermaphrodite, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. Spawning usually occurs in summer, and the larvae are planktonic.
Economic Importance[edit | edit source]
Pecten maximus is commercially important and is harvested for its meat. It is a popular seafood in many parts of Europe, particularly in France, where it is a key ingredient in dishes such as Coquilles Saint-Jacques.
Conservation[edit | edit source]
While Pecten maximus is not currently considered threatened, it is vulnerable to overfishing and habitat degradation. Conservation measures include size limits and restrictions on harvesting during the breeding season.
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD