The freshwater pearl mussel is a bivalve mollusc that lives in clean, fast flowing rivers and streams. It is one of the longest lived invertebrates in the world, and with a lifespan of up to 130 years is Ireland’s longest living animal.Like all bivalve molluscs the freshwater pearl mussel has a shell that consists of two halves connected by a flexible hinge that can be … [Read more...] about Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera)
Molluscs
Common Octopus (Octopus vulgaris)
The common octopus is an extraordinary creature. It's a molluscs – a relative of the slugs and snails you find in your garden, and along with the cuttlefish, squid and nautilus, belongs to a group of marine molluscs known as cephalopods. Literally translated the name means “head-footed”, and the bizarre-looking cephalopods certainly look as if their tentacle-like arms sprout … [Read more...] about Common Octopus (Octopus vulgaris)
Common Cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis)
The common or European cuttlefish is one of the most amazing creatures living in the seas around Ireland. Favouring the warmer conditions found around our south west, south and south east coasts this close relative of the squid and octopus belongs to an advanced group of molluscs known as cephalopods – widely regarded as the most intelligent and active group of invertebrates on … [Read more...] about Common Cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis)
