Front

Bivalve which can be cultured to obtain pearls.

Back

Oyster

Front

Another name for the forgut; receives and prepares food for digestion.

Back

Buccal cavity

Front

Name for the middle layer of mollusk shell.

Back

Prismatic

Front

Nocturnal cephalopod with a chambered shell.

Back

Nautilus

Front

The most threatened group of invertebrates in the U.S.

Back

Freshwater clam

Front

What is the function of the mantle in mollusks?

Back

The mantle is a significant part of the mollusk's anatomy that secretes the shell and can also assist in respiration.

Front

Define cephalopod and give an example.

Back

Cephalopods are a class of mollusks characterized by a prominent head and tentacles; examples include octopuses and squids.

Front

What is the role of ctenidia in mollusks?

Back

Ctenidia are gill structures in mollusks that facilitate gas exchange and filter feeding.

Front

What distinguishes bivalves from other mollusks?

Back

Bivalves have two shells (valves) and lack a distinct head, with a body that is laterally compressed.

Front

What is the primary diet of most mollusks?

Back

Most mollusks are herbivores or detritivores, feeding on algae, plants, or decomposing organic matter.