In fish production, which of the following comes under the category of shellfish?
- AOption (a)
Silver carp
- BOption (b)
Bombay duck
- COption (c)
Tuna
- DOption (d)
Molluscs
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Correct answer
Molluscs
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Molluscs.
Key Points
- Molluscs are classified as shellfish, which include organisms with soft bodies often protected by a hard shell. Examples include clams, oysters, mussels, and scallops.
- Shellfish are broadly categorized into molluscs and crustaceans. Molluscs are distinct due to their calcium carbonate shells and lack of jointed appendages.
- Unlike finned fish such as Silver carp, Bombay duck, and Tuna, molluscs are invertebrates and are harvested for their edible meat and sometimes their shells.
- Molluscs are primarily found in marine environments, although certain species like freshwater mussels exist in rivers and lakes.
- Shellfish, including molluscs, are a rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making them nutritionally valuable and widely consumed globally.
Additional Information
- Silver carp:
- Silver carp is a freshwater fish species commonly found in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
- It is widely used in aquaculture due to its rapid growth rate and ability to filter feed on plankton.
- Silver carp is not a shellfish; it belongs to the category of finned fish.
- Bombay duck:
- Bombay duck is a type of lizardfish and is predominantly found along the Arabian Sea, particularly in India.
- Despite the name, Bombay duck is not a shellfish but a finned fish consumed mainly in dried or fresh form.
- Tuna:
- Tuna is a marine finfish and one of the most commercially important fish species globally.
- It is known for its high nutritional value, especially its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Tuna does not fall under the shellfish category.
- Molluscs:
- Molluscs are invertebrates with soft bodies often enclosed in a calcium carbonate shell.
- They include species like clams, oysters, snails, squids, and octopuses.
- Molluscs are highly valued in the seafood industry for their nutritional benefits and culinary uses.
- They play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems by filtering water and serving as prey for other marine organisms.
Important Points
- Shellfish Classification:
- Shellfish are divided into two major categories: molluscs (e.g., clams, oysters, scallops) and crustaceans (e.g., crabs, lobsters, shrimp).
- Molluscs are characterized by their soft bodies and hard shells, while crustaceans have jointed appendages and exoskeletons.
- Global Consumption:
- Shellfish, especially molluscs, are a key part of diets in coastal regions across the world.
- They are harvested for food, and their shells are used in various industries, including jewelry and construction.
- Environmental Importance:
- Molluscs like oysters and mussels are vital for water filtration in marine ecosystems.
- They help maintain ecological balance and improve water quality by removing pollutants.