Flying Scallop EXPERT ONLY
The Flying Scallop has red tentacles and a smoother shell than Caribbean members of its genus, and its tentacles are more sticky. While it usually remains in one place (sessile), it has the ability to jet water out of the back of its hinge, propelling it forward in the direction of its opening.
It is usually found embedded among reef rubble, in a small nest that it has made of rock. It tolerates all animals that do not try to eat it, and can be kept in groups. It requires floating micro-plankton to be kept alive in the home aquarium and will do best in a mature reef aquarium system. Nitrates must be kept low, and it will not tolerate any copper-based medications.
It requires supplementation with phytoplankton, and organic foods (Marine Snow or Selcon) provided by using a small feeding device.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Shell Type | Smooth, red tentacles |
| Behavior | Sessile with jet propulsion capability |
| Feeding Requirements | Float micro-plankton, phytoplankton, Marine Snow, or Selcon |
| Water Conditions | Mature reef system, low nitrates, no copper |
FAQ
Can the Flying Scallop be kept in a group?
Yes, it can be kept in groups as long as no predatory species are present.
What type of food does it require?
It requires floating micro-plankton, phytoplankton, and organic foods such as Marine Snow or Selcon.
Does it tolerate copper-based medications?
No, it will not tolerate any copper-based medications.
Nathan Mitchell –
Added a Flying Scallop to my mature reef tank and it has been thriving. The red tentacles stand out well against the rockwork. It stays in one spot but occasionally moves forward, which is fascinating to watch. I feed it daily with marine snow and phytoplankton. Nitrates are kept low and no copper treatments have been used. It’s a peaceful addition to the tank.
Oliver Black –
This scallop is a unique addition to my reef setup. It doesn’t eat much but stays active and looks healthy. I noticed it makes small movements when the water flow changes. Feeding it with floating micro-plankton works well. I keep nitrates under 20 ppm and avoid copper products. It’s a good choice for experienced reef keepers.
Christian Piper –
The Flying Scallop is visually striking with its red tentacles. It’s not aggressive and blends well into the reef rubble. I’ve kept it with several other invertebrates and it hasn’t been disturbed. I use Selcon occasionally and provide daily phytoplankton. It’s a calm, interesting species that adds character to the tank.