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.

Become a Scallop-Sitter and Help Restore Scallops in the Florida Panhandle
FWC biologists would like your help in their scallop restoration efforts.

Bay Scallops - General Information
Learn about the anatomy, reproduction and ecology of the Florida bay scallop.

Bay Scallop Restoration
Learn about scallop restoration efforts led by FWRI scientists and how you can help!

Bay Scallop Monitoring
FWRI scientists have been studying bay scallops since 1994. Learn about some of these research projects.

Bay Scallop Season and Abundance Survey
To assess the status and long-term trends of bay scallops in Florida waters, FWRI scientists conduct adult population surveys along the state's west coast.

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.