Pronunciation: [mˈɒlʌsks] (IPA) 
The word "molluscs" is spelled with a double "l" and a single "s" at the end. In IPA phonetic transcription, this word would be spelled /ˈmɒləsks/. The double "l" represents the "o" sound, and the single "s" at the end represents the "s" sound. This spelling may seem unusual, but it is consistent with the common pattern in English of using a double consonant to indicate a short vowel sound followed by a single consonant.
Molluscs, also known as mollusks, are a diverse group of invertebrate animals that belong to the phylum Mollusca. They are characterized by a soft, unsegmented body that may be enclosed in a protective, often spiral-shaped shell. Molluscs exhibit an incredible array of forms, occupying various habitats, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments.
The body plan of molluscs typically consists of three main parts: a head, a muscular foot, and a visceral mass containing the internal organs. Many species of molluscs also possess a mantle, a fleshy dorsal fold that secretes a calcareous substance, forming a shell. However, some molluscs, such as slugs and octopuses, have either reduced or completely lost their shells.
Molluscs exhibit great morphological diversity, ranging from the minute and delicate pteropods to the massive and robust giant squids. They encompass numerous well-known groups, including snails, clams, mussels, oysters, cuttlefish, and nautiluses.
Due to their ecological importance, molluscs serve various roles. They are essential prey for many marine and terrestrial predators, they play important roles in nutrient cycling, and some molluscs, such as oysters, contribute to the filtration and purification of water.
While many molluscs are harmless, some species can be of medical importance. Certain venomous cone snails and octopuses possess venom that they utilize for defense or capturing prey.
Overall, molluscs represent an incredibly diverse and widespread group of invertebrates, with a wide range of adaptations that have allowed them to inhabit nearly every corner of the Earth.
One of a class of animals whose bodies are soft and destitute of a bony skeleton-as snails, oysters, and shell-fish in general.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "molluscs" is derived from the Latin term "molluscus", which itself comes from the Latin word "mollis", meaning soft. This term was used to describe the soft bodies of animals belonging to the phylum Mollusca, which includes a wide range of creatures such as snails, slugs, clams, octopuses, and squids. The Latin term "molluscus" was adopted into English as "mollusk" and later pluralized to "mollusks" in American English or "molluscs" in British English.
