Shellfish: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when speaking about aquatic animals with shells that are eaten as food, such as oysters, clams, or crabs.

• I am allergic to shellfish; We ordered a platter of shellfish for dinner

A broader term encompassing all edible marine life, including fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

• Seafood is a staple in coastal diets; The restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood

Refers to a category of soft-bodied shellfish that often have an external shell, such as clams, oysters, and snails.

• Mollusks are often found in both saltwater and freshwater; The chef prepared a dish featuring mollusks as the main ingredient

Specifically refers to a class of shellfish that have a hard exoskeleton and jointed limbs, like crabs, lobsters, and shrimp.

• Crustaceans are a popular choice for many seafood dishes; The marine biologist specialized in the study of crustaceans

This term is typically used when referring to edible marine animals that live inside shells. It is most common in culinary contexts.

• We ordered a variety of shellfish at the seafood restaurant, including oysters and shrimp

This term is used in scientific or educational contexts to describe invertebrate animals living in water, such as mollusks and crustaceans.

• Aquatic invertebrates play a crucial role in the ecosystem, acting as both prey and predator

This broad term refers to any living creature in the ocean, including fish, plants, and microorganisms. It is used in general discussions about ocean life.

• Marine organisms are affected by climate change, resulting in changes to their habitats and behaviors