Flame Scallop: A Mesmerizing Jewel of the Ocean
Introduction
Underwater enthusiasts and marine hobbyists often seek the extraordinary, and the Flame Scallop (Ctenoides scaber) certainly fits the bill. With its vibrant colors and captivating appearance, this marine creature is a unique addition to any aquarium. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of the Flame Scallop, touching on its characteristics, habitat, dietary habits, and care requirements.
Flame Scallop Basics
Latin Name: Ctenoides scaber
Size: Flame Scallops are relatively small, typically reaching sizes of 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) in diameter.
Natural Habitat: These stunning creatures can be found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around Indonesia and the Philippines. Flame Scallops are often spotted in shallow reef environments, making them a striking sight for divers and snorkelers.
Coral Type: The Flame Scallop is not a coral at all; it belongs to the Bivalvia class of mollusks. Specifically, it falls under the subclass Pteriomorphia, which includes various bivalves such as mussels, oysters, and scallops. This places it in a different category from SPS (Small Polyp Stony), LPS (Large Polyp Stony), or hard corals.
Types: The Flame Scallop (Ctenoides scaber) is the most well-known species of its kind, but there are other scallop species with varying colors and patterns. These include the Electric Flame Scallop (Ctenoides ales), which features neon-blue hues. The Flame Scallop, however, remains the most sought-after and recognized among aquarists.
Habitat and Care
Flame Scallops are remarkable creatures known for their vibrant red or orange mantles adorned with tiny, luminescent blue dots that give them their distinctive appearance. They are best suited for mature reef aquariums with stable water conditions. To keep them healthy, maintain a water temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C) and a stable pH level of 8.1-8.4.
These creatures require a sandy substrate in your tank, as they like to burrow themselves into the sand, with only their colorful mantles exposed. They should be placed in well-lit areas of your aquarium to promote the growth of photosynthetic algae in their mantles.
Feeding and Nutrition
Unlike corals, Flame Scallops are not photosynthetic, which means they do not rely on light for their primary source of nutrition. Instead, they are filter feeders, drawing in planktonic organisms and microorganisms from the water column using their delicate tentacles.
To ensure the Flame Scallop’s health and longevity, you can provide them with liquid or powdered phytoplankton and zooplankton, which can be added to the tank water. This should be done a few times a week. It’s important not to overfeed, as excess nutrients can lead to water quality issues.
Alternative Names
The Flame Scallop is sometimes referred to by alternative names, including “Electric Flame Scallop” or simply “Flame Scallop.” These names may be used interchangeably, referring to the same captivating species.
Fragility and Propagation
Flame Scallops are notoriously difficult to propagate and frag. Unlike corals, they lack the rigid structures that allow for easy fragmentation. Additionally, their delicate nature makes handling and manipulation a risky endeavor, often resulting in injury to the scallop. Therefore, attempting to frag Flame Scallops is discouraged and should only be undertaken by experts with specialized knowledge and equipment.
Conclusion
The Flame Scallop, known scientifically as Ctenoides scaber, is a true jewel of the ocean with its mesmerizing appearance and unique behaviors. Although they require specific care and a mature aquarium, the effort is well worth it for the joy of observing these captivating creatures. Remember that they are filter feeders and need a proper diet to thrive, and leave propagation to the experts due to their fragility. By providing the right environment and nutrition, you can enjoy the beauty of Flame Scallops in your own marine aquarium.
Picture by: Reel Reef Canada
