Malacology

Malacology is the scientific study of mollusks, a diverse group of invertebrates that includes snails, slugs, clams, oysters, octopuses, and squids. It involves examining their anatomy, behavior, ecology, and evolution to better understand their roles in ecosystems and their interactions with humans. Malacologists investigate how mollusks adapt to different environments, their reproductive methods, and how they impact industries like fisheries and shell collecting. This field is important for conserving mollusk species, managing fisheries, and studying biological processes such as shell formation and movement in aquatic animals.