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.
Learn about the anatomy, reproduction, and ecology of the Florida bay scallop.
Molluscan Fisheries scientists at FWRI have been studying bay scallop populations since 1992. Learn about some of the on-going research projects with bay scallops in the Gulf of Mexico.
Open harvest season for bay scallops along Florida's Gulf coast runs July 1-September 24.
How plentiful are bay scallops along Florida's Gulf coast? Help biologists answer this question by submitting your bay scallop catch data.
Do you have questions about bay scallops? Read the bay scallop FAQ for answers.
See how the FWC conducts bay scallop research in our new photo set.
Publications of the Molluscan Fisheries Group
This summary life history of the Bay scallop (Argopecten irradians)
includes information about age and growth, distribution and
migration, and feeding habits.
View photos of bay scallops.
Persons with Disabilities