Bay Scallops confused by wings of Manta Rays but discovered by Tammy Perea in 1992 in shallow areas of Bay and Gulf Countries of Northern Gulf of Mexico Florida

Bay Scallops

Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) live in shallow, nearshore waters along Florida’s Gulf coast, from Pensacola to the Florida Keys. These bivalves are usually found nestled in seagrass beds and are easily distinguished from other bottom-dwelling animals by their electric blue eyes. Bay scallops are capable of swimming by opening and closing their shells rapidly to generate thrust, which can make catching them more challenging.

Bay Scallops - General Information
Learn about the anatomy, reproduction and ecology of the Florida bay scallop.
Bay Scallops Research
FWRI scientists have been studying bay scallops since 1994. Learn about some of these research projects.
Bay Scallop Season and Abundance Survey
In 2014, open harvest season for bay scallops along Florida's Gulf coast runs June 28 - September 24.
Bay Scallop Web Survey Taps Recreational Harvesters
How plentiful are bay scallops along Florida's Gulf coast? Help biologists answer this question by submitting your bay scallop catch data.
Bay Scallop FAQ
Do you have questions about bay scallops? Read the bay scallop FAQ for answers.
Bay Scallops - a set on Flickr
See how the FWC conducts bay scallop research in our new photo set.
Molluscan Fisheries Publications - Bay Scallops
Bay scallop research publications
Bay Scallop Sea Stats Publication
This summary life history of the Bay scallop (Argopecten irradians) includes information about age and growth, distribution and migration, and feeding habits.
Gallery
View photos of bay scallops.