Bivalves: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in scientific or technical contexts to refer to a class of marine and freshwater mollusks with two hinged shells.

• Bivalves are studied extensively in marine biology for their unique filtering systems

Often used more broadly in scientific or technical contexts to refer to a large phylum of invertebrate animals that includes bivalves, snails, and octopuses.

• Mollusks are known for their diverse range of habitats and forms

Used in both culinary and casual contexts to refer to one of the major groups of seafood that includes both mollusks (e.g., clams, oysters) and crustaceans (e.g., shrimp, crabs).

• She's allergic to shellfish, so we need to be careful about what we serve

Commonly used in casual conversation and culinary contexts, particularly when referring to the preparation or consumption of these shellfish.

• We had steamed clams for dinner last night

Used in scientific or formal contexts to refer to a group of aquatic animals that have a hinged shell.

• Marine biologists study bivalves to understand their role in the ecosystem.
• The shell of most bivalves is made of calcium carbonate.

Typically used in scientific discourse to refer to a broad category of invertebrates that includes bivalves, snails, and cephalopods.

• Mollusks are one of the most diverse groups of animals on Earth.
• The study of mollusks can provide insight into evolutionary biology.

Commonly used in culinary discussions to refer to edible aquatic animals that have a shell, including both bivalves and crustaceans.

• Shellfish allergies can be very serious.
• The restaurant specializes in fresh shellfish dishes.

Commonly used in everyday language or culinary contexts to refer to certain types of edible bivalves.

• We had a delicious clam chowder for dinner.
• The beach is a great place to go clamming.