Cilia of gills in bivalve help in

Options

A. Reproduction
B. Swimming
C. Feeding
D. All the above

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Role of Gills in Bivalves:**
- Bivalve mollusks, such as clams and oysters, possess gills that serve multiple functions, primarily in respiration and feeding.

2. **Identifying the Structure of Gills:**
- The gills are made up of gill filaments that have cilia on their surfaces. These cilia are tiny hair-like structures that play a crucial role in the functioning of the gills.

3. **Function of Cilia on Gills:**
- The cilia on the gill filaments create water currents. This movement of water is essential for two main processes:
- **Gas Exchange:** The water flowing over the gills allows for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, which is vital for respiration.
- **Feeding:** The water currents also help in bringing food particles towards the bivalve, allowing it to filter feed efficiently.

4. **Eliminating Incorrect Options:**
- The question presents options: reproduction, swimming, and feeding.
- The cilia on the gills are not involved in reproduction, as they do not serve any reproductive function.
- They are also not used for swimming, as bivalves primarily rely on their muscular foot for locomotion rather than their gills.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Given the functions of the cilia on the gills, the correct answer to the question is that the cilia of gills in bivalves help in feeding.

**Final Answer:**
The cilia of gills in bivalves help in feeding.

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