Mollusca
Mollusca
Mollusca (pronunciation: /mɒˈlʌskə/) is a large phylum of invertebrate animals known as mollusks. The term is derived from the Latin word "molluscus", meaning "soft", in reference to the soft bodies of these animals.
Etymology
The term "Mollusca" comes from the Latin "molluscus", which means "soft". This is in reference to the soft bodies of these animals, which are often protected by a hard shell.
Definition
Mollusca is a phylum of invertebrate animals that includes a wide variety of species, including snails, clams, oysters, squids, and octopuses. They are characterized by their soft bodies, which are often protected by a hard shell.
Characteristics
Mollusks are characterized by their soft bodies, which are often protected by a hard shell. They have a muscular foot for locomotion, and many species have a radula, a unique organ used for feeding. Most mollusks are marine, but there are also freshwater and terrestrial species.
Classification
The phylum Mollusca is divided into several classes, including Gastropoda (snails and slugs), Bivalvia (clams, oysters, and other bivalves), Cephalopoda (squids, octopuses, and cuttlefish), and Polyplacophora (chitons).
Related Terms
- Gastropoda: The class of mollusks that includes snails and slugs.
- Bivalvia: The class of mollusks that includes clams, oysters, and other bivalves.
- Cephalopoda: The class of mollusks that includes squids, octopuses, and cuttlefish.
- Polyplacophora: The class of mollusks that includes chitons.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mollusca
- Wikipedia's article - Mollusca
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