Flame Scallop (Ctenoides scaber)
Flame Scallop (Ctenoides scaber)
Flame scallops get mistaken constantly for the true bioluminescent "disco clam," but the flickering light show along this species’ mantle edge isn’t self-generated at all — it’s produced by rows of microscopic silica spheres that scatter and reflect ambient light as the mantle ripples, a passive optical trick rather than actual bioluminescence. Genuinely beautiful either way, but a demanding filter feeder that needs a mature tank with consistent phytoplankton to survive long term.
Care level: Difficult · Temperament: Peaceful · Max size: ~3" · Min tank: 30 gal, mature · Reef safe: Yes · Diet: Filter feeder, phytoplankton
At a glance
- Scientific name
- Ctenoides scaber
- Common name
- Flame Scallop
- Water type
- Saltwater
- Care level
- Difficult
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Max size
- ~3"
- Minimum tank
- 30 gal
- Diet
- Filter feeder, phytoplankton
- Reef safe
- Yes
When it ships
Most non-quarantined stock goes out the week you order. If we do not already have the animal in-house we source it first — allow up to two weeks for it to reach us. Live animals leave Monday and Tuesday, and Early AM Overnight is the only service that carries a live arrival guarantee.
The live guarantee
Shipped Early AM Overnight: a 1-hour DOA window from confirmed delivery, and nothing beyond it. Next Day Air and 2-Day carry no live arrival guarantee, and neither does USPS Priority. Local pickup or local delivery: 24 hours, if you bring a water sample from your aquarium and we test it before the animal goes home. Maintenance clients: 60 days when we service the aquarium at least twice a month, 28 days on a monthly plan.
Expert guidance
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Cameron draws on 25+ years in the hobby and a marine biology background to help you choose the right fit for your system.