KING SCALLOP

The King scallop, also known as Pecten Maximus or Norwegian scallop, is considered one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable species in the entire world of mollusks.

Why do we say that the Norwegian scallop is sustainable? Because it is hand-harvested by divers in the cold waters of Norway. This harvesting method fully respects the environment, is non-invasive, and preserves the scallop’s original flavor.

The King scallop is also instantly recognizable as the shell in Botticelli’s famous painting of Venus. According to an ancient legend, the Roman goddess of love emerged from the sea on a scallop shell. That’s why it’s a long-standing symbol of fertility.

But there’s another reason the scallop is a true emblem of fertility: it’s a hermaphroditic species, capable of self-fertilization and reproduction. A peculiar trait that only a few species have, that makes it possible to reproduce whenever they need to.

Physical characteristics of the King scallop

The King scallop has an equilateral shell with a fan-like shape that is strongly inequivalve. Just like the St. James scallop, the right valve is convex while the left one is flat. Both valves display prominent radial ribs with growth lines that extend from the umbo to the outer edge. The coral, the bright orange internal part, is creamier than the white part.

As for coloration, we can observe some distinctive hues:

1. the right valve is cream-colored, with yellowish, pinkish, or light brown tones;
2. the left valve is reddish-brown or dark brown.

The interior of the shell is white.

Distribution and additional features of the King scallop

As one of its names suggests, the species is predominantly found in the Eastern Atlantic, especially along the coasts of Norway and Portugal. It thrives on sandy seabeds and lives at depths ranging from 25 to 200 meters below sea level. Some related species can also be found in the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

One of its most remarkable traits is its ability to move quickly, thanks to which it can escape predators, especially starfish. Like a tiny underwater Olympian, bouncing away using a water-jet propulsion system. This speed and agility come from impressive muscular strength, despite lacking a brain, it has a decentralized nervous system that coordinates its movements.

From the very first bite, its tender meat melts in your mouth, wrapping your taste buds in a unique, flavor-rich experience.