Pelecypoda
Pelecypoda, commonly known as bivalves, is a class of mollusks characterized by a laterally compressed body enclosed within a hinged shell composed of two valves. This group includes various aquatic animals such as clams, oysters, and mussels. Pelecypods are filter feeders, primarily utilizing gills to extract food particles from the water.
Pelecypoda meaning with examples
- In marine biology classes, students often study pelecypoda to understand their ecological roles as filter feeders that help maintain water quality in aquatic environments.
- During our beach excursion, we collected several types of pelecypoda, marveling at the diversity of shells that washed ashore, including the familiar clam and the less common geoduck.
- Pelecypoda play a vital part in ecosystems, serving as food sources for various marine organisms, which demonstrates their importance in the aquatic food chain.
- Research on pelecypoda has significantly advanced our understanding of environmental changes, as shifts in their population can indicate broader ecological impacts.
- Aquaculture has increasingly relied on pelecypoda, particularly oysters, due to their high market demand and their ability to filter vast amounts of water, contributing to a healthier marine environment.