Pronunciation: [mˈɒluːs] (IPA) 
The correct spelling for the word "Molluse" is actually "Mollusc". This word refers to a soft-bodied invertebrate, such as a snail or an octopus. The "sc" in "mollusc" is pronounced like "sk" and is represented by the IPA phonetic symbol /sk/. The "u" in "mollusc" is silent, so the word is pronounced /ˈmɒləsk/. Accurate spelling is crucial for effective communication, both spoken and written.
Mollusca, commonly known as mollusks or molluscs, are a diverse phylum of invertebrate animals that exhibit a wide range of body forms and characteristics. They are a highly successful and abundant group, with over 85,000 known species found in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
Mollusks typically possess a soft body protected by a hard shell, although not all species have shells. The body plan of mollusks typically consists of three main parts: the head, visceral mass, and foot. The head usually contains sensory organs, such as eyes and tentacles, while the visceral mass houses the internal organs. The foot, located at the base of the body, functions in locomotion and attachment.
Mollusks encompass an impressive array of creatures including snails, slugs, clams, mussels, squid, and octopuses. They demonstrate a tremendous range of adaptations for various lifestyles, with some being herbivores, carnivores, filter feeders, or scavengers.
Mollusks play vital ecological roles in their respective habitats. They serve as important food sources for many animals and contribute to nutrient recycling. Additionally, they provide ecosystem services through their contribution to water filtration and reef-building.
However, mollusks also face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Many species are also vulnerable to predation and parasitism. These factors pose significant challenges to the conservation of mollusk populations and their overall biodiversity.
The term "mollusk" (also spelled "mollusc") is derived from the Latin word "molluscus", which means "soft". This Latin term is ultimately derived from the Greek word "molyskos", which also means "soft". The name was given to this group of animals because they typically possess soft bodies, lacking a rigid internal skeleton.
