Filibranchia

/ˌfɪlɪˈbræŋkiə/ noun

Definition

The collective term for mollusks that possess filibranch gill structures.

Etymology

From Latin 'filum' (thread) plus 'branchia' (gill), directly describing organisms characterized by thread-like gill filaments.

Kelly Says

Scientists use filibranchia to classify entire groups of filter-feeding mollusks, and this single anatomical feature—the arrangement of gill threads—can tell you everything about how an animal feeds and lives.

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