noun
- bivalve mollusks having two hinged shells, such as clams, oysters, and mussels
Usage: scientific; zoological
Examples
- Pelecypods are filter feeders that strain plankton from water.
- The fossil record shows pelecypods have existed for millions of years.
- Marine biologists study pelecypods to understand ocean ecosystems.
- Pelecypods like scallops can swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells.
- The anatomy of pelecypods includes a muscular foot for burrowing.
- Commercial fishing often targets pelecypods such as clams and oysters.