Bathymodiolus childressi [Bathymodiolus childressi]
Description
Bathymodiolus childressi, another species of giant mussels, is native to the cold seep habitats of the Gulf of Mexico. It is known for its large size and robust shells. Like other species in this genus, Bathymodiolus childressi hosts chemosynthetic bacteria within its gills, which convert the methane and sulfides into organic materials, providing essential nutrients for the mussels.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Mussels
Mytilida
|
| Family |
True Mussels
Mytilidae
|
| Genus |
Giant Mussels
Modiolus
|