About Ctenoides scaber (Born, 1778)
Ctenoides scaber, commonly known as the flame scallop, has a rough shell and a red mantle. Red and white tentacles line the edge of its mantle. The species’ vibrant red color comes from large amounts of carotenoids found in its body. Flame scallops can reach 3 inches in length. Like almost all bivalves, this species uses its gills for both respiration and water filtration. Flame scallops rest in self-constructed "nests" built from small pieces of coral and rocks. They are herbivorous, feeding exclusively on phytoplankton. During feeding, flame scallops sift and sort phytoplankton with their palps to select suitable food for ingestion.
