Mollusks

★ Mollusks are soft-bodied invertebrates of the phylum Mollusca,

usually wholly or partly enclosed in a calcium carbonate shell
secreted by a soft mantle covering the body. Along with the
insects and vertebrates, mollusks are one of the most diverse
groups in the animal kingdom, with nearly 100,000 (possibly as
many as 150,000) described species.

Molluscs are found in nearly all freshwater

and marine environments, and some are
found also on land. The marine molluscs are
probably the best-known and easily
recognized members of the phylum. Many of
their shells are highly valued by collectors.
In general, mollusks have 3 body regions: a head, a visceral
mass, and a "foot." The head contains the sense organs and
"brain," while the visceral mass contains the internal organs.
The "foot" is the muscular lower part of the body which is in
contact with the substrate. Mollusks usually have a shell
(although some do not). Mollusks also have an extension of
the body wall called the mantle. This portion of the animal's
anatomy is responsible for secreting the shell. The mantle
encloses the mantle cavity which contains the Ctenidia
(gills), anus and excretory pores.
Importance of mollusks to humans
Many mollusks like gastropods, bivalves, and
cephalopods serve as food sources for humans.
Some have important commercial purposes. Pearl
bearing mollusks are used in the ornamental
industry.

Conclusion:
• Mollusks have a well-formed body structure with a nervous
system, respiratory system, circulatory systems, etc. but no
proper segmentation of the body parts.
• The presence of a tongue-like feeding organ called a radula
sets mollusks apart from other sea creatures.
• The radula is made up of teeth containing chitin used in
feeding.