Fossil Information Sheet F005
Pectens
These Pectens were bivalve mollusks similar to a scallop.
The large circular shells have a convex right valve and a flattened left valve.
They prefered a clean and sandy habitat in moderate waters where they rested on the bed in self made depressions.
When necessary they swam by opening and closing their valves.
Fossilised pectens are usually from around 20 million years ago.
They are also often found in groups, such as these illustrated here (at the top of the page an unusual fossil pecten column from my stock and here, below, a more typical pecten plaque).
They make great architectural decor or interior design pieces.
There is a wonderful very large display of Pecten fossils at the Royal Festival Hall in London
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