CHLAMYS GLABRA

Chlamys glabra is one of the main scallop species, reaching a maximum length of 8.5 cm. This particular species has the following characteristic traits:

1. a subequilateral, rounded shell with a fan-like shape, made of two nearly identical valves (the left valve being slightly more convex than the right);
2. each valve features two auricles (the lateral expansions), which are not perfectly symmetrical;
3. the right auricle bears a byssal notch with small denticles.

The shell is marked by 9 to 13 primary radial ribs, radiating from the hinge. To give you an idea of the width, just think that it’s roughly equal to the intercostal spaces. Secondary radial ribs may also be present between the primary ones. Along the mantle margin, thin tentacles can be observed inside the shell.

It’s important to pay attention to the color of queen scallops.

The external shell coloration may have the following hues:

1. whitish;
2. yellowish-green;
3. greyish-green;
4. reddish tones.

This species is commonly found throughout the Mediterranean Sea, particularly abundant in the northern Adriatic Sea. It also inhabits the eastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Portugal to Morocco. They favor sandy seabeds and lagoon environments with saline marine waters, typically living at a depth of about 20 cm.

Compared to other scallop species, it is distinguishable by its less pronounced radial ribs on the valves.