The Flame Scallop is not really a scallop, instead it is a bivalve mollusk, which has the ability to propel itself through the water when threatened. It has a rough shell which is covered by small bumps. The Flame Scallop, which is not photosynthetic, is a filter feeder and requires additional supplements of phytoplankton. It also benefits from the addition of trace elements and calcium, which aids in its growth and development. The Flame Scallop uses small rocks and pieces of coral to make a nest in which it embeds itself. When frightened, it may close its valve, and propels itself through the water. The Flame Scallop can be kept in groups and can tolerate animals which do not try to harm it. It generally requires floating micro-plankton for its survival, and will do best in a mature reef aquarium system. The Flame Scallop is very sensitive to nitrates and copper based medications, and thrives well with additions of calcium and alkalinity. Although, the Flame Scallop is non photosynthetic in nature, and the feeding becomes little challenging for these species, therefore additional feeding is required for its survival.
The Flame Scallop uses its shell to clamp down and propel itself through the water. The Flame Scallop will "swim" through the water until it finds a dark and rocky area of your aquarium; here it can extend and secure its foot. Flame Scallops are filter feeders and prefer an established aquarium that has sufficient calcium in order to allow their shell to grow. More than one can be kept in each tank and they will often cluster together in one spot. They make an excellent addition to any tank.Scallops are in the Class Bivalves, which connects two shells by a ligament. This ligament controls the opening and closing of the shell which is used for propulsion. When open the Scallop extends its mantle which is lined with red or white tentacles. These creatures feed by drawing in water and extracting food through a specialized filter.
