Pecten maximus

A species of scallop found in the Northeast Atlantic

Pecten maximus, commonly known as the great scallop or king scallop, is a species of bivalve mollusc in the family Pectinidae. It is found in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, from Norway to the Iberian Peninsula, and is a significant species for commercial fishing.

Description

File:Pecten maximus shell.jpg

A shell of Pecten maximus

Pecten maximus is characterized by its large, fan-shaped shell, which can reach up to 15 cm in length. The shell is composed of two valves, with the right valve being more convex than the left. The exterior of the shell is typically reddish-brown with radiating ribs, while the interior is smooth and white.

The shell's distinctive "ear" or "auricle" on either side of the hinge is a notable feature, aiding in the identification of the species. The animal itself has a series of eyes along the edge of its mantle, which are sensitive to light and movement, helping it detect predators.

Habitat and Distribution

Pecten maximus inhabits the sandy and gravelly substrates of the continental shelf, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 100 meters. It is distributed across the Northeast Atlantic, from the coasts of Norway and the British Isles to the Iberian Peninsula.

Biology

File:Pecten maximus anatomy.jpg

Anatomy of Pecten maximus

Pecten maximus is a filter feeder, using its gills to extract plankton and organic particles from the water. It is capable of swimming by rapidly clapping its valves together, expelling water in jets to propel itself away from predators.

Reproduction in Pecten maximus is sexual, with individuals being either male or female. Spawning occurs in the warmer months, and fertilization is external. The larvae are planktonic before settling to the seabed and developing into juvenile scallops.

Economic Importance

The great scallop is highly valued for its meat, particularly the adductor muscle, which is considered a delicacy. It is harvested commercially using dredging techniques, although concerns about sustainability and environmental impact have led to the development of aquaculture practices.

Conservation

Efforts to manage Pecten maximus populations include setting quotas, regulating fishing seasons, and establishing marine protected areas. Research into sustainable aquaculture methods is ongoing to ensure the long-term viability of this species as a food resource.

Related pages

• Bivalvia
• Pectinidae
• Aquaculture
• Marine conservation