Scallop is a bivalve mollusk widely distributed over the World Ocean. For some of its species, for example, the Icelandic scallop, the waters of the North Atlantic and the Barents Sea are suitable, however, the most favorable climate for most mollusks is subtropical and temperate. A shell of two rounded and ribbed flaps with “ears” is the house in which the scallop lives. The photo below shows the average size of the shell (the diameter of different species is from 2 to 20 cm). You can imagine the size of its inhabitant, having reached puberty, which occurs in the 5-7 year of life.
To breed, scallops spawn, which the current carries over long distances. The eggs that have settled on the bottom begin to exist independently.
The depth of the habitat of this amazing creature also depends on the species: some prefer to sink to the bottom of oceanic depressions, others prefer to exist in shallow water. At any depth, the scallop lives, dug in the bottom soil, filtering planktonic algae and suspended particles of organic matter from the water column for food. To move over short distances, the mollusk uses a rather interesting method: it suddenly opens and closes the valves, releasing a stream of water. So the scallop swims, or rather, makes jumps to the beat by slamming the shell flaps.
The mollusk is held in the shell with the help of strong protein threads - byssus. On the edge of the mantle there are tentacles - the organs of touch. Here are two rows of small eyes that allow the scallop to see at a distance not far, but sufficient to notice in time the approach of its most dangerous enemy - the starfish.
Edible scallop is a great value, so most of its species are subject to fishing. Shells are used for decorative purposes, however, scallops are commercially caught not for their sake, but for the tender, sweet-tasting meat - an expensive and refined delicacy that goes on sale in frozen or salted form. In many cuisines of the world - Japanese, Chinese, French - it is prepared as a separate dish, and also included in the composition of recipes for creating salads, main dishes, pies and other culinary masterpieces.
True gourmets prefer raw scallops drenched with lemon juice and quality olive oil to all culinary delights.
Scallop is not only tasty, but also useful, since the meat of this mollusk contains a unique complex of substances useful to the body. The energy value of 100 g of the edible part of scallop is approximately 88 calories. The composition of a delicious product from the deep sea includes protein, vitamin PP, chlorine, sulfur, and other macro and micronutrients. Scallops - a protein product with a minimum fat content, having a low calorie content. Therefore, it is useful to use them, first of all, for those who suffer from obesity. In Asian countries, scallop dishes are considered one of the most effective means of increasing male potency.
