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Questions and Answers
What is the main role of mollusks in the ecosystem?
Crucial roles in the ecosystem
Describe the size range of mollusks mentioned in the text.
From microscopic shell-less solenogastres to giant squids over 12 meters long
Where do bivalves and gastropods primarily inhabit?
Marine and freshwater environments
How do mollusk shells differ from arthropods' exoskeletons?
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What are the two main body parts that characterize mollusks?
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What are some unique features of mollusks mentioned in the text?
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Study Notes
- The mollusks are a diverse group of animals within the clade Spiralia, with at least 85,000 extant species including snails, slugs, clams, squids, octopuses, and more.
- Mollusks range in size from microscopic shell-less solenogastres to giant squids and colossal squids that can grow over 12 meters and weigh up to 700 kilograms.
- Mollusks play crucial roles in the ecosystem and are essential to the world economy with a significant impact on aquaculture.
- Most mollusks are marine, with bivalves and gastropods also inhabiting freshwater environments, while snails and slugs are terrestrial.
- Mollusk shells, secreted by the mantle, are part of their bodies and cannot be shed like arthropods' exoskeletons.
- Mollusks are characterized by their body parts: the head-foot for locomotion and the visceral mass for organ housing, protected by the mantle.
- Mollusks have unique features like complex photoreceptors, a rasping radula for feeding (except bivalves), and various foot adaptations for locomotion or attachment.
- Mollusk reproduction is mainly dioecious, with some hermaphroditic species; they have specific courtship rituals and release sperm and eggs into the water column for fertilization.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the diverse group of mollusks, including facts about their size, habitats, unique features, and reproductive methods. Learn about the importance of mollusks in the ecosystem and economy.
