They are marine bivalve molluscs in the family Pectinidae, the scallops.

This species is found around the South African coast, from Cape Peninsula to Port Alfred, subtidally to at least 24 m of water.

The base of the shell has a pair of ear-like protrusions which are equal in size.

Individuals of the species have many eyed tentacles which extend outside the shell unless the animal is alarmed.

[1] The South African scallop is usually seen lying on sand or mud surfaces.