Bathymodiolus thermophilus [Bathymodiolus thermophilus]
Description
Bathymodiolus thermophilus, often referred to as the giant mussel, is a marine bivalve mollusk species that belongs to the family Mytilidae. It is found in deep-sea hydrothermal vents and cold seep environments. This species is specially adapted to survive in extreme environments with high pressure, low oxygen, and high temperatures. They form symbiotic relationships with chemosynthetic bacteria, which provide nourishment for the mussels.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Mussels
Mytilida
|
| Family |
True Mussels
Mytilidae
|
| Genus |
Giant Mussels
Modiolus
|