filibranch ctenidium

gill

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June 26, 2026

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A filibranch ctenidium is a type of gill found in mollusks, specifically within the order Filibranchia, which includes mussels, ark shells, and scallops. These gills are characterized by their laminated structure, composed of distinct V-shaped filaments. In filibranchs, these filaments are only weakly united by cilia, which are short, hair-like structures that help move water and particles. This structure allows for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide with the surrounding water. The ctenidium functions as a respiratory organ and also plays a role in filter-feeding by sieving food particles from the water current.12345

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bivalve
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…may be further qualified as filibranch, pseudolamellibranch, or eulamellibranch. In filibranchs the filaments are only weakly united by cilia, and often the ctenidium retains some inherent sorting mechanism. Collection and sorting of potential food has not yet been definitively ascribed to gills and labial palps, respectively. In the pseudolamellibranch ctenidium,…
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…may be further qualified as filibranch, pseudolamellibranch, or eulamellibranch. In filibranchs the filaments are only weakly united by cilia, and often the ctenidium retains some inherent sorting mechanism. Collection and sorting of potential food has not yet been definitively ascribed to gills and labial palps, respectively. In the pseudolamellibranch ctenidium,…
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