Placopecten magellanicus

Placopecten magellanicus

Placopecten magellanicus, commonly known as the Deep Sea Scallop or Atlantic Deep Sea Scallop, is a species of bivalve mollusk in the Pectinidae family. It is native to the northwest Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the eastern coast of North America.

Description

The Placopecten magellanicus is a large scallop, with a shell diameter that can reach up to 9 inches (23 cm). The shell is fan-shaped and has a series of ridges and grooves. The color of the shell can vary from dark purple to reddish brown on the upper (right) valve, while the lower (left) valve is typically white or cream-colored.

Distribution and Habitat

The Placopecten magellanicus is found in the northwest Atlantic Ocean, from the north coast of the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Canada to Cape Hatteras in North Carolina, USA. It inhabits waters at depths ranging from 18 to 110 meters, but it is most commonly found at depths of 37 to 55 meters. The species prefers sandy or gravelly seabeds.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the Placopecten magellanicus begins with the release of eggs and sperm into the water column. After fertilization, the resulting larvae float in the water column for several weeks before settling onto the seabed. The scallops reach sexual maturity at around two years of age and can live for up to 20 years.

Economic Importance

The Placopecten magellanicus is of significant economic importance. It is the target of one of the most valuable wild scallop fisheries in the world, primarily centered in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. The scallops are harvested both for their meat and for their shells, which are used in the craft industry.

Conservation

While the Placopecten magellanicus is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, it is subject to overfishing. Management measures such as size limits, area closures, and rotational fishing have been implemented to ensure the sustainability of the scallop fishery.

See Also

• Pectinidae
• Scallop
• Bivalvia
• Mollusca