The Flame Scallop is a visually striking marine invertebrate known for its intense red mantle and flowing white tentacles. Native to the Atlantic, this species is often admired for its dramatic appearance as it opens and closes within rock crevices, adding motion and contrast to reef displays.
Despite its beauty, the Flame Scallop is a specialized, non-photosynthetic filter feeder with very specific nutritional requirements. It relies entirely on suspended microplankton and dissolved organics in the water column. While it may survive short-term in typical reef aquariums, long-term success requires frequent targeted feeding and a mature system capable of supporting constant plankton availability.
This species is best suited for experienced aquarists who understand advanced feeding strategies and nutrient management. It is peaceful and reef-safe but should be considered a challenge species.
Scientific Name: Lima sp.
Common Name: Flame Scallop
Origin: Atlantic
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger, mature systems preferred)
Adult Size: ~3 inches
Diet: Obligate filter feeder (live phytoplankton, marine snow, fine zooplankton)
Feeding Frequency: Daily to multiple times daily
Lighting Requirement: Low (non-photosynthetic)
Water Flow: Moderate (to deliver suspended food)
Temperature: 72–78°F
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Compatibility Notes: Completely peaceful; safe with all fish and corals.
Special Requirements: Requires frequent plankton feeding and a well-established system; not recommended for beginners.
The Flame Scallop is a visually striking marine invertebrate known for its intense red mantle and flowing white tentacles. Native to the Atlantic, this species is often admired for its dramatic appearance as it opens and closes within rock crevices, adding motion and contrast to reef displays.
Despite its beauty, the Flame Scallop is a specialized, non-photosynthetic filter feeder with very specific nutritional requirements. It relies entirely on suspended microplankton and dissolved organics in the water column. While it may survive short-term in typical reef aquariums, long-term success requires frequent targeted feeding and a mature system capable of supporting constant plankton availability.
This species is best suited for experienced aquarists who understand advanced feeding strategies and nutrient management. It is peaceful and reef-safe but should be considered a challenge species.
Scientific Name: Lima sp.
Common Name: Flame Scallop
Origin: Atlantic
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger, mature systems preferred)
Adult Size: ~3 inches
Diet: Obligate filter feeder (live phytoplankton, marine snow, fine zooplankton)
Feeding Frequency: Daily to multiple times daily
Lighting Requirement: Low (non-photosynthetic)
Water Flow: Moderate (to deliver suspended food)
Temperature: 72–78°F
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Compatibility Notes: Completely peaceful; safe with all fish and corals.
Special Requirements: Requires frequent plankton feeding and a well-established system; not recommended for beginners.