Do gastropods have a radula?
As in all molluscan groups except the bivalves, gastropods have a firm odontophore at the anterior end of the digestive tract. Generally, this organ supports a broad ribbon (radula) covered with a few to many thousand “teeth” (denticles).
Do gastropods have a radula for feeding?
Within the gastropods, the radula is used in feeding by both herbivorous and carnivorous snails and slugs.
Does gastropods have head or radula?
Most gastropods bear a head with tentacles, eyes, and a style. A complex radula is used by the digestive system and aids in the ingestion of food. Eyes may be absent in some gastropods species.
Does Monoplacophora have radula?
The main characteristics of Monoplacophora include (1) small, deep sea, almost bilaterally symmetrical; (2) have undivided arch shell; (3) body with distinct head and radula, without eyes or sensory tentacles (except around the mouth); (4) foot-retractor muscle; (5) anus median, posterior; (6) mantle cavity large.
What is a radula and how does a mollusc use it?
The radula, part of the odontophore, may be protruded, and it is used in drilling holes in prey or in rasping food particles from a surface. It is supported by a cartilage-like mass (the odontophore) and is covered with rows of many small teeth (denticles).
What does a radula look like in a gastropod?
As for the radula itself. it is a ribbon-like structure covered with many denticles (tiny teeth). It is movable over the odontophore and is also controlled by muscles. The feeding behavior of marine snails include some that are herbivores, detritus (debris) feeders, scavengers and predatory carnivores.
Is Gastropoda phylum?
The Class Gastropoda (in Phylum Mollusca) includes the groups pertaining to snails and slugs. The majority of gastropods have a single, usually spirally, coiled shell into which the body can be withdrawn.
How do gastropods function as decomposers?
Most gastropods, however, are useful to humans in that they help decompose dead plants and animals into substances that can be used by plants to manufacture new organic compounds.
What is the primary difference between a gastropod and a bivalve?
As you check with pairs to see if they sorted correctly, ask them, “What is the biggest difference between bivalves and gastropods?” (Bivalves have two shells connected at a hinge and gastropods have one shell.)
How does the mollusc make the shell?
Mollusks have an outermost layer of tissue on their bodies. Called the mantle, this layer connects the animal to its shell. The mantle also creates that shell. Specialized cells in the mantle build the shell using proteins and minerals.