Anodonta

/ˌænəˈdɑntə/ noun

Definition

A genus of large freshwater mussels that lack grinding teeth and are found across the Northern Hemisphere.

Etymology

From Greek an- (without) + odous (tooth) + -a (feminine ending). Similar to anodon but more commonly used in scientific taxonomy.

Kelly Says

Anodonta species are so efficient at filtering water that they can accumulate toxins and parasites from their environment—so scientists use them as 'biological markers' to detect pollution invisible to the naked eye!

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