Mollusca is a taxonomic phylum that contains a diverse array of organisms (referred to as 'mollusks'), and the taxonomic classes that include snails, sea slugs, octopi, squid, and bivalves such as clams, mussels and oysters. From 50,000 to 200,000 species are estimated to belong to this phylum. Imagine the obvious differences between an octopus and a clam, and you'll get an idea of the diversity of this phylum!
Mollusk Characteristics:
Characteristics common to all mollusks is that they have a soft body, and usually distinguishable 'head' and 'foot' regions. Some may have a hard covering, or exoskeleton. The mollusk uses its muscular foot to move.
Mollusks also have a heart that pumps blood through blood vessels, digestive system, and a nervous system.
Classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Mollusca
Feeding:
Many mollusks feed using a radula, which is basically a series of teeth on a cartilage base. The radula can be used for complex tasks, from grazing on marine algae or drilling a hole in another animal's shell.
Reproduction:
Some mollusks have separate genders, with males and females represented in the species. Others are hermaphroditic (reproductive organs associated with both male and female).
Distribution:
Mollusks may live in salt water, in fresh water, and even on land.
Conservation & Human Uses:
Thanks to their ability to filter large quantities of water, mollusks are important to a variety of habitats. They are also important to humans as a food source, and have been historically important for making tools and jewelry.
Sources:
- Martinez, Andrew J. 2003. Marine Life of the North Atlantic. Aqua Quest Publications, Inc.:New York
- University of California Museum of Paleontology. The Mollusca. Accessed August 23, 2010.
