Image Key > Mollusca > Mollusc Larva
Gastropoda - Protoconch Larva
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusca |
| Class |
Gastropoda |
Description
- The embryonic or larval shell of some classes of molluscs.
Distinguishing characteristics
- May possess several whorls.
- Small ciliated foot beneath shell.
- Foot may bear an operculum that can close the shell’s opening (Larink and Westhide 2006).
Distribution
Ecology
- Two parts to development:
- Protoconch 1: formed within the embryonic egg capsule.
- Protoconch 2: formed after the larva has hatched (planktonic).
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