Mollusc
Mollusc (also spelled Mollusk)
Mollusc (pronounced: /ˈmɒləsk/), also spelled mollusk, is a term used to refer to members of the large and diverse phylum of invertebrates known as Mollusca.
Etymology
The word "mollusc" is derived from the French word mollusque, which originated from the Latin word molluscus, meaning soft or tender.
Definition
Molluscs are a group of soft-bodied animals that usually (but not always) have an external shell. They are one of the most diverse groups of animals on the planet, with at least 50,000 living species (and more likely around 200,000). They range from tiny snails, clams, and abalone to larger creatures like octopuses, squids, and scallops.
Characteristics
Molluscs have a wide range of forms, including the large cephalopods like squids and octopuses, which have complex eyes and a sophisticated nervous system. They also include the gastropods (snails and slugs), which have a single shell and a muscular foot used for locomotion.
Classification
Molluscs are classified into several classes, including Gastropoda (snails and slugs), Bivalvia (clams, oysters, mussels), Cephalopoda (squid, octopuses), and others.
Related Terms
- Gastropoda: The largest class of molluscs, including snails and slugs.
- Bivalvia: A class of molluscs with a hinged shell, including clams, oysters, and mussels.
- Cephalopoda: A class of molluscs including squids and octopuses.
- Invertebrate: An animal without a backbone. Molluscs are one of the largest groups of invertebrates.
- Shell: A hard, protective outer layer created by some species of molluscs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mollusc
- Wikipedia's article - Mollusc
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