Pectinidae, commonly known as scallops, inhabit ocean floors worldwide. They are bivalve mollusks with fan-shaped shells and a unique ability to swim by clapping their shells together. Scallops have a row of eyes along their mantle edge, allowing them to detect motion and light.

Pectinidae, commonly known as scallops, are found in oceans worldwide. They are predominantly distributed across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, inhabiting coastal regions of continents such as North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Oceania. Scallops can be found in both temperate and tropical waters, with species-specific distributions often influencing their presence in certain areas.

Scallops typically inhabit marine environments, residing on sandy, gravelly, or muddy seabeds. They are found at various depths, ranging from shallow coastal waters to deep sea habitats, often between 10 and 100 meters deep, though some species can be found even deeper. The water temperature can vary significantly depending on the species, with some preferring colder northern waters and others thriving in warmer tropical regions.

Scallops play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem as filter feeders. They feed on plankton and organic particles suspended in the water, contributing to water purification and nutrient cycling. Scallops are also preyed upon by various marine predators, including sea stars, crabs, and certain fish species. Many scallop species exhibit unique adaptations, such as the ability to swim by rapidly clapping their shells together, helping them evade predators.