Image Key > Mollusca > Veliger Larva
Gastropoda - Veliger Larva
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusca |
| Class |
Gastropoda |
Description
- The characteristic developmental stage of most mollusc groups, with the exception of cephalopods (squid and octopus).
Distinguishing characteristics
- Can bear some resemblance to the adult as the shell, foot, eyes and other organs develop.
- Main characteristic feature of the larva is the velum, the swimming organ, which comprises two large semi-circular lobes bearing long cilia along the perimeter.
Distribution
- Can be seasonally abundant when marine snails, limpets, abalone, sea slugs, oysters and mussels etc. disperse their larvae into the water.
Ecology
- Can be non-feeding or feeding stages.
- Feeding stage uses the velum for suspension feeding as well as for swimming.
- The velum is shed before settlement and the adoption of benthic life.
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