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Mollusk Biology Basics
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Mollusk Biology Basics
Mollusk Biology Basics
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1
Question
What is a key feature of mollusks' body plan?
Answer
Bilateral symmetry with head, visceral mass, and foot.
2
Question
Which class of mollusks has eight armored shell plates?
Answer
Class Polyplacophora (chitons).
3
Question
Where do mollusks typically live?
Answer
Marine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats.
4
Question
What is the primary role of the mantle in mollusks?
Answer
Secretes the shell in most species.
5
Question
What characterizes the larval stages trochophore and veliger?
Answer
Ciliated, free-swimming larvae.
6
Question
How does torsion affect gastropod anatomy?
Answer
Rotates the visceral mass 90-180° twist.
7
Question
What is the function of the radula in gastropods?
Answer
Scrapes or eats algae and plant material.
8
Question
What distinguishes aeolid nudibranchs from dorids?
Answer
Cerata with stinging cell sequestration.
9
Question
Why are nudibranchs bright-colored?
Answer
Warning coloration for toxins or camouflage.
10
Question
What is the significance of magnetite in mollusk teeth?
Answer
Provides super-strong, durable material for feeding.
11
Question
In bivalves, what is the main feeding method?
Answer
Filter feeding via gills.
12
Question
What is the main ecological role of mollusks?
Answer
Predators, prey, decomposers, ecosystem engineers.
13
Question
How do terrestrial snails breathe?
Answer
Using a lung-like cavity for air.
14
Question
What class includes octopus, squid, and cuttlefish?
Answer
Class Cephalopoda.
15
Question
What features are typical of the class Gastropoda?
Answer
Torsion, coiled shell, radula, muscular foot.
16
Question
What reproductive strategy is common in mollusks?
Answer
Mostly separate sexes with external or internal fertilization.
17
Question
What explains the diversity of nudibranch colors?
Answer
Aposematism, camouflage, or mimicry.
18
Question
Why are mollusks considered economically important?
Answer
As food, in jewelry, and in aquaculture.