a gastropod of warm seas that is edible and contains mother-of-pearl
An abalone is a type of marine mollusk belonging to the family Haliotidae. They are known for their beautiful, iridescent shells and are found in coastal waters around the world. Abalone are herbivorous creatures, feeding on algae and seaweed. They have muscular feet that they use to cling to rocks and other surfaces. The shells of abalone are highly prized for their aesthetic value and are used in jewelry and decorative items. Due to overfishing and habitat destruction, many species of abalone are now threatened or endangered. They are also considered a delicacy in some cuisines, particularly in Asian cuisine, where they are often used in soups, stir-fries, and sushi.
a marine arthropod with an external shell that attaches itself to a surface and feeds on particles that are in the water
A barnacle is a small marine crustacean that is characterized by its hard, cone-shaped shell. They are known for their ability to attach themselves to a variety of surfaces, including rocks, piers, ship hulls, and even the bodies of larger marine animals. Barnacles are filter feeders, using their feathery appendages called cirri to capture plankton and other small particles from the water. They have a unique reproductive process where they release their larvae into the water, which then settle and develop into adult barnacles. These fascinating organisms play an important ecological role by providing attachment surfaces for other marine organisms and serving as a food source for some species.
an aquatic mollusk that its body is enclosed with a shell that has two parts
A bivalve is a type of mollusk characterized by its two-part hinged shell. They include familiar marine and freshwater organisms such as clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops. Bivalves are filter feeders, using their specialized gills to extract food particles from the water. They are known for their ability to burrow into sediments or attach themselves to hard surfaces using strong byssal threads. Bivalves are important ecological contributors, playing a role in nutrient cycling, sediment stabilization, and providing habitat for other organisms. They are also commercially valuable as a food source and in aquaculture industries.
an edible marine shellfish living in sand or mud
A clam is a bivalve mollusk that lives in both marine and freshwater environments. They have a two-part hinged shell that they can open and close for protection. Clams are filter feeders, using their gills to extract food particles from the surrounding water. They are known for their ability to burrow into the sediment or attach themselves to rocks or other surfaces. Clams come in a variety of species and sizes, ranging from small ones found along sandy beaches to larger ones harvested for culinary purposes. They are a popular seafood delicacy enjoyed in various cuisines around the world.
a marine bivalve which is edible and has ribbed shells, living in sand
A cockle is a small bivalve mollusk that inhabits sandy or muddy coastal areas. They have rounded shells with distinctive ridges and a heart-shaped outline. Cockles are known for their ability to bury themselves in the sand or mud, using a muscular foot to dig and move. They are filter feeders, extracting nutrients from the water through their gills. Cockles are often found in large numbers, forming dense beds or colonies. They are harvested for both commercial and recreational purposes, with their meat being utilized in various culinary dishes. Cockles are valued for their sweet and briny flavor, and they are enjoyed in many coastal cuisines around the world.
a large marine mollusk with a spiral-shaped shell, often used for decorative purposes and prized for its meat in various cuisines
A conch is a type of large marine mollusk that belongs to the family of gastropods. They have a spiral-shaped shell with a distinctive pointed spire and a flared opening. Conch shells are often prized for their beauty and are commonly used for decorative purposes. The meat of the conch is edible and is consumed in various cuisines, particularly in the Caribbean and Mediterranean regions. Conch meat is known for its firm texture and mild, sweet flavor. It is used in soups, stews, salads, and fritters. Conch is also a popular ingredient in traditional dishes such as conch fritters and conch ceviche. Additionally, conch shells are sometimes blown as musical instruments, producing a deep, resonant sound.
/kˈaʊɹi/
a small marine snail with a brightly colored and polished shell that is often used for decorative and cultural purposes
A cowrie is a type of small marine snail with a smooth, glossy shell that is typically oval-shaped and ventrally flattened. It is known for its strikingly patterned shell, which often features intricate designs and vibrant colors. Cowries are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters and are highly valued for their ornamental use in jewelry and traditional crafts. In some cultures, cowrie shells hold symbolic and spiritual significance, representing prosperity, fertility, and protection.
a sea creature with eight legs, two pincers, and a hard shell, which is able to live on land
A crab is a crustacean characterized by its hard exoskeleton and sideways-walking movement. It has a wide and flattened body with a pair of pincers and multiple legs. The crab is typically found in coastal areas and can vary in size, color, and shape depending on the species. It is well-adapted to its marine or terrestrial environment and plays an important ecological role as a scavenger and predator. The crab is known for its ability to regenerate lost limbs and is widely recognized as a delicious seafood enjoyed by many cultures around the world.
a large nocturnal decapod that lives in fresh waters and resembles a lobster
A crayfish, also known as a crawfish or freshwater lobster, is a small crustacean resembling a miniature lobster. It is found in freshwater habitats such as rivers, streams, and lakes. The crayfish has a segmented body, a pair of large pincers, and multiple legs. It is known for its ability to burrow into the substrate and create intricate tunnels. Crayfish are omnivorous, feeding on plants, insects, small fish, and decaying organic matter. They are an important part of the aquatic ecosystem and are also consumed by humans as a delicacy in many cuisines.
/hˈɜːmɪt kɹˈæb/
a small marine decapod that lives in the empty shells of gastropods
A hermit crab is a small crustacean that lives in the ocean and has a soft, asymmetrical abdomen protected by a borrowed shell. The hermit crab is known for its habit of finding and using empty shells of other animals as a protective home. As the crab grows, it must search for larger shells to accommodate its size. Hermit crabs are scavengers and feed on a variety of foods such as algae, small invertebrates, and decaying matter. They are commonly found in coastal areas and are known for their unique behavior of changing shells as they grow.
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a tiny Antarctic crustacean that resembles a shrimp and is the main food for whales
A krill is a small, shrimp-like crustacean that forms a vital part of the marine food chain. They are found in large numbers in cold ocean waters and serve as a key food source for many marine animals, including whales, seals, penguins, and fish. Krill play a significant role in the transfer of energy from phytoplankton (microscopic plants) to higher trophic levels. They feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton and, in turn, are consumed by larger predators. Krill are known for their swarming behavior, forming dense aggregations that can be seen from the surface of the water. They have a high nutritional value and are also harvested by humans for various purposes, including as a food source and as a source of omega-3 fatty acids.
/lˈæŋɡaʊstˌiːn/
a small European pinkish orange lobster that is cooked as food
A langoustine is a type of crustacean found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. It resembles a small lobster with slender claws and delicate, sweet-tasting flesh. Langoustines are highly prized for their succulent meat and are often considered a gourmet delicacy. They are commonly used in various culinary preparations, including seafood dishes, pasta, and risotto. With their distinctive flavor and tender texture, langoustines are a favorite among seafood lovers and are sought after for their exquisite taste and presentation in fine dining establishments.
/lˈæŋɡaʊst/
a large edible spiny crustacean that is used in French cuisine
A langouste, also known as spiny lobster or rock lobster, is a type of marine crustacean found in warm waters around the world. It has a long, spiny body and a hard shell, similar to a lobster. Langouste meat is highly regarded for its sweet and succulent flavor, making it a popular choice in many seafood dishes. It is often grilled, steamed, or boiled and served with butter or dipping sauces. With its delicate texture and rich taste, langouste is a prized ingredient in both home cooking and upscale seafood restaurants, providing a delicious and indulgent dining experience.
/lˈɪmpɪt/
a small marine mollusk of the gastropod family that sticks tightly to the rocks
A limpet is a small marine mollusk with a conical shell that tightly adheres to rocks and other hard surfaces along the shoreline. Its shell is typically dome-shaped and has a rough texture, providing protection against predators and the harsh environment. Limpets have muscular feet that they use to cling to rocks and move around. They feed on algae and other microscopic organisms by scraping them off the rock surface with their radula, a specialized feeding organ. Limpets are known for their strong attachment to their chosen spot, which allows them to withstand the force of crashing waves. They are commonly found in intertidal zones and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance by contributing to the diversity of the rocky shoreline ecosystem.
a sea animal with a shell, a pair of strong, large claws and eight legs
A lobster is a type of large crustacean found in oceans and seas worldwide. It has a distinctive appearance with a long, segmented body, a tough exoskeleton, and large claws. Lobsters are renowned for their culinary value and are considered a delicacy in many cuisines. They are highly sought after for their succulent and flavorful meat. Lobsters are typically bottom-dwellers, inhabiting rocky crevices and burrows on the ocean floor. They are skilled predators, using their sharp claws to catch and crush prey such as fish, crabs, and mollusks. Lobsters have a remarkable ability to regenerate lost limbs, making them highly resilient creatures. They are commercially harvested and are an important economic resource in many coastal communities.
an edible bivalve mollusk with a dark shell that is found in saltwater or freshwater habitats
A mussel is a small, bivalve mollusk that lives in freshwater and saltwater environments. They have elongated shells that are usually dark or bluish-black in color. Mussels are known for forming dense colonies and attaching themselves to rocks, piers, or other hard surfaces using strong byssal threads. These threads allow them to withstand strong currents and tidal movements. Mussels are filter feeders, meaning they draw in water and filter out microscopic plankton and organic particles for food. They play a crucial role in maintaining water quality by filtering large volumes of water and removing impurities. Mussels are also a popular seafood delicacy and are enjoyed in various culinary preparations.
a type of shellfish found in the ocean, known for its hard, irregular shell and prized for the pearls it can produce
Oysters are shellfish found in the ocean, recognized by their hard, irregular shells. They are known for their ability to filter water, making them important for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. While some oysters are consumed as food, others are valued for their ability to produce pearls, which form inside the shell as a response to irritants. Oyster shells have various practical uses, such as in agriculture, construction, and crafting. Overall, oysters play a significant role in both the environment and human culture.
/pˈɛɹɪwˌɪŋkəl/
a small marine gastropod mollusk with a spiral-shaped shell, known for its ability to withstand exposure to air during low tides
A periwinkle is a small, marine gastropod mollusk with a spiral-shaped shell. They are commonly found in intertidal zones, clinging to rocks or other hard surfaces. Periwinkles have cone-shaped shells with small openings at one end. They are known for their ability to withstand exposure to air during low tides by tightly sealing their shells to retain moisture. Periwinkles feed on algae and other organic matter, scraping it off surfaces with their radula, a specialized feeding structure. They play an important role in coastal ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for other organisms. In some cultures, periwinkles are consumed as a seafood delicacy, often boiled or steamed and served with butter or other seasonings.
a marine crustacean with a compressed abdomen that is cooked as food
A prawn is a type of shellfish that belongs to the larger family of crustaceans, which also includes shrimp and lobsters. They have a distinctive appearance, with a slender body, a segmented exoskeleton, and a curved tail. Prawns are known for their versatility and are popular in various cuisines worldwide. Prawns can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, depending on the species. They are known to inhabit rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal areas. Prawns are highly adaptable and can adjust to a wide range of water conditions, making them prevalent in different regions across the globe.
an edible marine bivalve with a white internal muscle that opens and closes the shells and causes it to swim
A scallop is a bivalve mollusk with a round, fan-shaped shell. They have tender and sweet meat that is highly valued in cooking. Scallops can swim by clapping their shells together and are filter feeders, extracting small organisms from the water. They are commonly enjoyed in various culinary dishes and are prized for their delicate flavor and texture.
the hard empty outer body of an oyster, clam, etc., often found on a shore
A seashell is a protective outer covering of various marine mollusks. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are often found washed up on beaches. Seashells serve as homes for mollusks and provide protection from predators and environmental factors. They are also cherished by beachcombers and collectors for their beauty and intricate patterns. Seashells are a fascinating reminder of the diverse and captivating marine life that exists beneath the ocean's surface.
a type of sea creature with a shell, such as clams, oysters, mussels, shrimp, lobster, etc.
Shelfish refers to a diverse group of aquatic animals that possess a shell or exoskeleton, protecting their soft bodies. They include various types of mollusks, such as clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops, as well as crustaceans like crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. Shellfish are commonly found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, and they play a significant role in culinary traditions around the world. They are valued for their delicious meat and are often enjoyed in various seafood dishes. However, it is important to note that some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to shellfish, so caution should be exercised when consuming them.
a small animal from the crustacean family with ten legs that lives in the sea
A shrimp is a small, crustacean creature that inhabits both freshwater and saltwater environments. They have slender bodies and are known for their curved shape and long antennae. Shrimp are an important part of many cuisines worldwide and are valued for their tender and flavorful meat. They can be cooked in various ways, including boiling, grilling, or sautéing, and are commonly used in dishes such as shrimp scampi, shrimp cocktail, and shrimp stir-fry. Shrimp are also a good source of protein and are low in calories, making them a popular choice for those seeking a healthy and delicious seafood option.
a small herbivorous mollusk that has a spiral shell and can be eaten as food
A winkle is a small marine snail with a conical shell. It is commonly found along rocky shores and in tidal pools. The shell of the winkle is typically smooth and often has attractive patterns or colors. These creatures are herbivores, feeding on algae and other small organisms that grow on rocks. Winkles are often harvested for culinary purposes, particularly in some European countries where they are considered a delicacy. They are usually cooked by boiling or steaming and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or added to various dishes. Winkles are appreciated for their unique flavor and texture, making them a popular choice for seafood enthusiasts.
/ɹˈeɪzɚ klˈæm/
a marine mollusk native to the Pacific Ocean that is edible
Razor clam is a type of bivalve mollusk with a long, slender shell resembling a straight razor. It burrows into sandy or muddy ocean bottoms and is typically found in coastal areas. The shell of a razor clam is smooth and elongated, and its body is soft and muscular. Razor clams are known for their fast digging ability, retracting into the sand quickly when disturbed. They are often sought after by seafood enthusiasts for their delicate and sweet flavor. Razor clams can be prepared in various ways, including steaming, frying, or incorporating them into soups and stews. Their unique shape and delicious taste make them a prized ingredient in many coastal cuisines around the world.
Grammatical Information:
a small, soft creature which carries a hard shell on its back and moves very slowly
A snail is a small, soft-bodied creature that belongs to the mollusk family. They have a spiral-shaped shell on their back, which provides protection and serves as their home. Snails are commonly found in diverse habitats, including gardens, forests, and aquatic environments. They move slowly by gliding on a muscular foot and leaving a trail of slime behind them. Snails are herbivorous and feed on plants, algae, and decaying matter. They play an important role in ecosystems as decomposers and as a food source for various organisms. Snails are known for their ability to retract their bodies into their shells when threatened. With their unique appearance and gentle movements, snails have fascinated both children and adults alike.
Grammatical Information:
a cephalopod mollusk originally from Pacific and Indian Oceans with a shell that is pearly on the inside
A nautilus is a cephalopod mollusk known for its distinctive spiral shell. It inhabits deep ocean waters and is considered a living fossil, with a lineage that dates back millions of years. The nautilus has a soft body and multiple tentacles, which it uses for locomotion and capturing prey. Its shell consists of interconnected chambers that provide buoyancy control. The nautilus is a nocturnal creature, typically venturing to shallower depths at night to feed on small fish and crustaceans. It is known for its slow growth rate and longevity, with some individuals living up to 20 years or more. The nautilus is a remarkable and enigmatic creature, representing a unique evolutionary lineage in the animal kingdom.
a marine bivalve that has small tentacles in order to catch the food
A brachiopod is a marine invertebrate characterized by its bivalve shell, which resembles those of clams or oysters. However, brachiopods are not closely related to mollusks. They have a distinct anatomy, with a stalk or a hinge that attaches them to the substrate. Brachiopods have two shell valves, with the upper valve usually larger and the lower valve smaller. They filter feed by extending a specialized structure called a lophophore, which is lined with ciliated tentacles, to capture plankton from the water. Brachiopods have a long fossil record, dating back over 500 million years, and were once much more diverse than they are today. While they may appear similar to clams, brachiopods have their own unique evolutionary history and ecological niche in marine ecosystems.
a small mollusk that moves very slowly and closely resembles a snail without shell
A slug is a gastropod mollusk that lacks a protective shell, making it visually distinct from its snail relatives. They have elongated bodies with a soft and slimy texture, allowing them to move smoothly across various surfaces. Slugs are commonly found in damp and humid environments, such as gardens and forests. They are voracious herbivores, feeding on a wide range of plant material, including leaves and decaying vegetation. Slugs have a specialized organ called a radula, which they use to scrape and consume their food. They are known for their ability to leave behind a trail of mucus as they move, which helps them navigate and detect potential threats. While some species of slugs can cause damage to crops and plants, they also play important roles in ecosystem processes, such as nutrient cycling and decomposition.
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