Definition
opisthobranchs
noun
- Marine gastropod mollusks characterized by a reduced or absent shell and gill positioned behind the heart, including sea slugs and sea hares.
Usage: zoology; plural form; singular is opisthobranch; largely obsolete taxonomic classification; modern taxonomy places these organisms in different groups
Examples
- Opisthobranchs are found in oceans worldwide, from shallow coral reefs to the deep sea.
- The colorful opisthobranchs display remarkable adaptations for camouflage and defense.
- Marine biologists study opisthobranchs to understand mollusk evolution and diversity.
- Many opisthobranchs lack a protective shell, relying instead on chemical defenses.
- The term opisthobranchs is less commonly used in modern scientific literature.