conchiferous

conchiferous

A conchiferous mollusk rests on the sandy ocean floor.

Definition

Adjective - Having a shell: "conchiferous" describes organisms, especially mollusks, that possess or produce a hard, calcareous shell. - Conchiferous animals include clams, snails, and oysters. (Animals that have a shell.)

Usage Examples
  • (Shelled species.)
  • (Shelled organisms.)
Advanced Usage
  • Geological context: "conchiferous" can refer to rocks or strata that contain fossilized shells.
    • The conchiferous limestone deposits indicate a shallow marine environment. (Limestone containing shell fossils.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Conch (n): a large, spiral shell, especially of a marine mollusk.
    • He collected a beautiful conch on the beach. (A large spiral shell.)
  • Conchology (n): the scientific study of shells and shelled organisms.
    • Conchology is a branch of malacology. (The study of shells.)
Synonyms
  • Shell-bearing: having a shell.
    • Shell-bearing mollusks are found in both salt and fresh water. (Having a shell.)
  • Testaceous: covered with a hard shell (used especially in biology).
    • Testaceous animals often have protective exoskeletons. (Having a hard shell.)
Related Idioms (None common for this technical term)