Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Bivalve Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐚
Add to dictionary

bivalve

[ˈbaɪvælv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

marine biology

Bivalves are a class of marine and freshwater mollusks that have a compressed body contained within a hinged shell. This class includes organisms such as clams, oysters, and mussels. Bivalves typically feed by filtering plankton and other small particles from the water using their gills. They can live in a variety of environments, from sandy bottoms to rocky shores. Bivalves are significant in both ecological and economic terms, serving as a food source and playing a role in water filtration.

Synonyms

clam, mollusk, shellfish.

Examples of usage

  • The fisherman caught several bivalves along the coast.
  • Oysters are a popular type of bivalve consumed by many.
  • Bivalves help maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • Many bivalves are filter feeders, which means they obtain food by filtering plankton and other small particles from the water.
  • They play crucial roles in aquatic ecosystems by improving water quality and providing habitat for other organisms.
  • Some bivalves, like oysters, can create reefs that offer shelter to marine life.

Culinary

  • Various types of bivalves are popular food items around the world, including clams, mussels, and scallops.
  • They are known for their unique flavors and are often used in dishes like chowders, pasta, and seafood platters.
  • Cultural foods, like Cajun gumbo or Spanish paella, often include different bivalves, showcasing their global culinary importance.

Fossils and Paleontology

  • Bivalve fossils can provide scientists with valuable information about past environments and climate conditions.
  • Their hardened shells are well-preserved in sedimentary rocks, helping to trace the evolutionary history of marine life.
  • Some ancient bivalve species lived on land, showcasing the evolutionary adaptability of these creatures.

Conservation

  • Bivalves face threats from overharvesting, pollution, and habitat loss, leading to declining populations in several regions.
  • Conservation efforts are underway to protect vulnerable species, like freshwater mussels, which serve as indicators of healthy ecosystems.
  • Sustainable marine practices aim to balance bivalve harvesting with environmental preservation for future generations.

Origin of 'bivalve'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from Latin, where 'bi-' means 'two' and 'valva' means 'fold' or 'shell'.
  • Bivalves have existed for over 500 million years, making them some of the oldest living creatures on Earth.
  • The classification of bivalves includes more than 15,000 species, highlighting their diversity.

The word 'bivalve' comes from the Latin word 'bivali', which means 'two valves'. This term refers to the two-part shell of these creatures, which is characteristic of the class Bivalvia. Bivalves have been a part of the Earth's faunal assemblage for over 500 million years, with some of the earliest known fossils found in deposits dating back to the Cambrian period. Throughout history, bivalves have played a crucial role in both natural ecosystems and human economies. In various cultures, they have been harvested for food, jewelry, and even used as currency. The study of bivalve biology and ecology has provided insights into environmental health, making them important indicators of marine ecosystem dynamics.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,705, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.