Mollusks

Front

What are mollusks?

Back

Mollusks are a diverse group of invertebrate animals that include snails, clams, and octopuses, characterized by a soft body, often protected by a hard shell.

Front

What are the three main classes of mollusks?

Back

The three main classes of mollusks are Gastropoda (snails and slugs), Bivalvia (clams, oysters, and scallops), and Cephalopoda (squids and octopuses).

Front

What is a bivalve?

Back

Bivalves are mollusks that have two shells (valves) hinged together, such as clams, oysters, and scallops.

Front

How do bivalves feed?

Back

Bivalves are filter feeders; they filter plankton and other small particles from the water using their gills.

Front

What is a radula?

Back

A radula is a specialized feeding organ found in many mollusks, consisting of a ribbon-like structure with tiny teeth used to scrape food.

Front

What is the function of the siphon in mollusks?

Back

The siphon is a tubular structure that allows mollusks to draw in water for respiration and feeding, and in some species, it helps in locomotion.

Front

What is jet propulsion in cephalopods?

Back

Jet propulsion is a method of movement used by cephalopods, where they expel water from their body through a siphon to propel themselves quickly.

Front

What is the role of ink in cephalopods?

Back

Cephalopods, like squids and octopuses, release ink as a defense mechanism to create a smoke screen, allowing them to escape from predators.

Front

What are gastropods?

Back

Gastropods are a class of mollusks that include snails and slugs, characterized by a single, usually spiraled shell or no shell at all.

Front

What is the main difference between bivalves and gastropods?

Back

Bivalves have two shells and are primarily filter feeders, while gastropods typically have one shell (or none) and use a radula to feed.