Scallop

ocean · shells · amazing swimmers

Two-part shells. Scallops have two shell halves that fit together perfectly, kind of like a sandwich. They can snap these shells shut super fast to shoot water out and zoom through the ocean.

Eyes everywhere. Scallops have dozens of tiny blue eyes arranged around the edge of their shells. These eyes help them spot danger like hungry starfish or other predators coming their way.

Swimming champions. Unlike most shellfish that stay stuck in one place, scallops are escape artists. When threatened, they clap their shells together rapidly to create a jet of water that pushes them away from danger.

Yummy food. Humans love to eat scallop meat, which is tender and slightly sweet. The round muscle inside is what powers all that shell-clapping action.

Rainbow shells. Scallop shells come in stunning colors like orange, purple, pink, and white. Their ridged shells are so beautiful that they've been used as decorations and symbols for thousands of years.