Bivalves

/ˈbaɪvælvz/ noun

Definition

Mollusks with two shells hinged together, including clams, oysters, mussels, and scallops.

Etymology

From Latin 'bi-' (two) + 'valva' (shell valve). The term was formalized in scientific classification in the 18th century for the class of shelled mollusks.

Kelly Says

Bivalves have been food and art for humans for over 200,000 years—archaeologists find ancient oyster shells piled sky-high at old campsites! Some can live over 500 years, making them older than most trees.

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