Bivalves Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🐚
bivalves
[ˈbaɪvælvz ]
Definitions
seafood
Bivalves are a type of mollusk that have a shell consisting of two hinged parts, such as clams, oysters, and mussels.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bivalves |
Used in scientific or technical contexts to refer to a class of marine and freshwater mollusks with two hinged shells.
|
| mollusks |
Often used more broadly in scientific or technical contexts to refer to a large phylum of invertebrate animals that includes bivalves, snails, and octopuses.
|
| shellfish |
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).
|
| clams |
Commonly used in casual conversation and culinary contexts, particularly when referring to the preparation or consumption of these shellfish.
|
Examples of usage
- Would you like to try some baked bivalves for dinner?
- The restaurant specializes in fresh bivalves sourced from local waters.
biology
Bivalves are aquatic animals with two shells that are connected by a hinge, known for their filter-feeding abilities.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bivalves |
Used in scientific or formal contexts to refer to a group of aquatic animals that have a hinged shell.
|
| mollusks |
Typically used in scientific discourse to refer to a broad category of invertebrates that includes bivalves, snails, and cephalopods.
|
| shellfish |
Commonly used in culinary discussions to refer to edible aquatic animals that have a shell, including both bivalves and crustaceans.
|
| clams |
Commonly used in everyday language or culinary contexts to refer to certain types of edible bivalves.
|
Examples of usage
- These bivalves play a crucial role in filtering water and maintaining the ecosystem.
- The scientist studied the anatomy of bivalves to understand their reproductive cycle.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Environmental Significance
- Bivalves play an important role in water ecosystems by filtering out pollutants and improving water quality.
- They provide habitats for other marine life, encouraging biodiversity in their environments.
Culinary Uses
- Many bivalves, like mussels and clams, are popular in various cuisines around the world and are enjoyed cooked or raw.
- Oysters are often eaten raw with lemon and hot sauce, and they are considered a delicacy in many cultures.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, bivalves are considered symbols of prosperity and are featured in traditional dishes during celebrations.
- Oyster shells have been used as tools and ornaments by indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
Fossil Record
- Bivalves are one of the oldest groups of animals on Earth, with fossils dating back over 500 million years.
- Their hard shells are often preserved in the fossil record, providing valuable information about ancient marine environments.
Origin of 'bivalves'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bivalve' comes from Latin, where 'bi-' means two and 'valva' means a door or a cover.
- Bivalves belong to the class Bivalvia, which includes creatures like clams, oysters, and mussels.
The word 'bivalves' comes from the Latin word 'bi-' meaning 'two' and 'valvae' meaning 'leaves of a door'. It refers to the characteristic two shells that open and close like a door. Bivalves have existed for millions of years and are important both ecologically and economically.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #25,684, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 25681 swagger
- 25682 gelding
- 25683 prise
- 25684 bivalves
- 25685 therapeutically
- 25686 advisedly
- 25687 radiologist
- ...