1. Bivalve
   "The pelecypod mollusk closed its shell tightly when threatened";
   - lamellibranch, pelecypodous

1. Marine or freshwater mollusks having a soft body with platelike gills enclosed within two shells hinged together
   "Clams and mussels are common examples of pelecypods";
   - bivalve, lamellibranch

Derived forms: pelecypods

See also: bivalve, bivalved

Type of: mollusc, mollusk [N. Amer], shellfish

Part of: Bivalvia, class Bivalvia, class Lamellibranchia, class Pelecypoda, Lamellibranchia

Encyclopedia: Pelecypod