Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Lecture - Phylum Mollusca

Generalized mollusc
from Biodidac

Today we continued our discussion of molluscs by explaining general features using the generalized mollusc as a base line to later on explain the adaptive radiation of the various molluscan groups.

We had a brief discussion of the head-foot portion, with emphasis on the head portion and a structure that is present in most mollusc groups, the radula.  Then we focused our attention on the foot, its roles, and some of its variants in different groups.

We also talked about the mantle and its role in secreting the three-layered shell (periostracum, prismatic layer, nacreous layer), and the importance of it lining the mantle cavity, where the gills, in the form of ctenidia, are found.

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