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Bivalvia

Polyplacophora

Mytilus spp

Siliqua patula

Cryptochiton stelleri

Species List

Sources

Student pages

Class Bivlavia

Introduction of the Bivalve

Bivalves are what people usually think of as shellfish. They are commonly commercially harvested for consumption, and many varieties are sold in markets. Common characteristics include:

• Laterally compressed bodies within two shells²
• Absence of radula²
• Body is within mantle cavity³

Life History

Habitat:

• Mostly marine, some live in freshwater⁴
• A majority are benthic, but a few are pelagic³
• Live on and within sediments⁴
• Most live in intertidal zone⁴

 Feeding and Respiration

• Ingest food by filtering particles from water through cilia on gills²
• Mucus threads move food particle from gills to mouth²
• Crystalline style, a rod in stomach, aids in digestion by rotating³
• Gas exchange is done through the paired gills³

Reproduction

• Bivalves are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm directly into the water column³