How many of the following are the examples Fiveof Molluscs? Cucumaria, Asterias, Pila, Pinctada, Antedon, Aplysia and Balanoglossus

Options

A. Five
B. Four
C. Three
D. Two

Answer

To determine how many of the given organisms are examples of mollusks, we will analyze each one individually:

1. **Cucumaria**: This is a genus of sea cucumbers, which belong to the phylum Echinodermata. Therefore, Cucumaria is **not** a mollusk.

2. **Asterias**: This is a genus of sea stars, also part of the phylum Echinodermata. Hence, Asterias is **not** a mollusk.

3. **Pila**: This genus includes large freshwater snails, which are indeed mollusks. Therefore, Pila **is** a mollusk.

4. **Pinctada**: This genus includes saltwater oysters, which are also classified under the phylum Mollusca. Thus, Pinctada **is** a mollusk.

5. **Antedon**: This genus refers to feather stars, which belong to the phylum Echinodermata. Therefore, Antedon is **not** a mollusk.

6. **Aplysia**: This genus includes sea hares, which are marine mollusks. Hence, Aplysia **is** a mollusk.

7. **Balanoglossus**: This organism is a genus of acorn worms, which belong to the phylum Hemichordata. Therefore, Balanoglossus is **not** a mollusk.

Now, let's summarize the findings:

- **Mollusks identified**: Pila, Pinctada, Aplysia
- **Total number of mollusks**: 3

Thus, the answer to the question is that **3** of the listed organisms are examples of mollusks.