Flame Scallop

Flame Scallops are non-photosynthetic filter feeders that rely entirely on very fine phytoplankton and invertebrate larvae suspended in the water column. They don't clean up detritus or algae, and typical bottled "invert foods" often aren't the right size or composition to sustain them long-term.

Drip acclimate slowly, as with any invertebrate, and provide only the most stable, mature reef conditions. Long-term success depends heavily on consistent, targeted feeding of appropriate-sized phytoplankton delivered directly to the animal — broadcast feeding the whole tank rarely delivers enough food specifically to a Flame Scallop tucked into a crevice.

Generally peaceful and tolerant of most tankmates that won't actively prey on it.

• Avoid housing with crabs, hermit crabs, or large predatory starfish that may attack it
• Keep away from fish known to pick at its exposed tentacles

• Be realistic about the feeding commitment before purchase — this isn't a "set and forget" invertebrate
• Target feed phytoplankton directly upstream of where it's nestled, using a pipette or dropper
• Let it choose its own spot in the rockwork rather than forcing a particular location
• Maintain stable calcium and alkalinity, and avoid copper-based medications entirely in any tank housing this species