European Thorny Oyster, Spinous Scallop – Spondylus gaederopus

, European Thorny Oyster, Spinous Scallop, Spondylus gaederopus
Depth: 1 - 50 m
Water Type: Marine
Toxicity: Toxic hazard unknown
Red List Status: Not evaluated (NE)
Temperature: 42.8 °F - 68 °F (6°C - 20°C)

The European Thorny Oyster, Spinous Scallop, scientifically known as Spondylus gaederopus, is a captivating marine bivalve mollusk recognized for its distinctive spiny exterior and vibrant colors. This species is a fascinating inhabitant of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean, where it thrives in a range of habitats.

Description & Characteristics

Spondylus gaederopus is characterized by its robust, irregularly shaped shell, typically measuring up to 15 centimeters in length. The shell surface is adorned with numerous prominent spines, giving it its common name, “thorny oyster.” The spines, varying in size and distribution, provide the shell with a unique, textured appearance. The colors of the shell are remarkably diverse, ranging from deep red and orange to yellow and even white, adding to the species’ allure. The valves of the shell, or the two halves, are uneven, with the left valve, the one attached to the substrate, often being much larger and heavier than the right. This asymmetry allows the Spondylus gaederopus to maintain its position on rocky surfaces, even under strong currents.

Habitat and Occurrence

Spondylus gaederopus exhibits a preference for rocky and coralligenous habitats, typically found at depths ranging from 5 to 100 meters. These habitats are primarily located in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean, with a presence in marine zones including the Lusitanian, Mediterranean, and Macaronesian regions. These zones are characterized by their unique environmental conditions, such as temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels, which are conducive to the growth and survival of this intriguing species.

Taxonomy

Spondylus gaederopus is classified within the Class: Bivalvia, which encompasses a wide variety of mollusks possessing a hinged, two-part shell. It belongs to the Order: Pectinida, a group characterized by their prominent, scallop-like shells. This species is further classified within the Family: Spondylidae, which includes other spiny oysters.

Feeding

Like many bivalves, Spondylus gaederopus is a filter feeder, relying on the flow of water to bring in its food source. This species primarily consumes plankton, microscopic organisms that drift in the water column. By filtering the water, Spondylus gaederopus extracts essential nutrients and energy, contributing to its growth and development.

Associated Species

Image References

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