Describing the Filter Feeding of Invertebrates Such as Mussels

Describing the Filter Feeding of Invertebrates Such as Mussels

This essay will be analysing the occurrence of filter feeding and

demonstrating it as a unique adaptation for marine mammals. It will

also analyse how filter feeding, combined with invertebrates such as

mussels, produces a complex, yet distinctive foraging strategy. This

essay will also discuss the features of molluscs and how they are

adapted to use their features to aid their particular means of

feeding, including the full process of how this form of consumption

occurs.

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An important necessity for any organism is that they are able to

obtain their own food. They need to acquire a sufficient amount of

food, in order to, maintain, grow and reproduce. An organism's

competitivity for survival is the most likely effect of what drove

them back to the oceans. Returning to the sea meant that marine

mammals had to adapt and evolve in order to live on. One of these

foraging techniques was filter feeding, found in the mysticete whales

and three species of pinnipeds. These are crabeater seals, leopard

seals and Antartic fur seals. Filter feeding, is by far, one of the

most unique adaptations for feeding. This foraging strategy allows

organisms to capture and process vast quantities of prey in a single

mouth full. This, therefore, permits them to obtain energy at high

rates, when small prey is collected. This unique adaptation is not

found in all terrestrial mammals.

Filter feeding is one of four main types of feeding. It contrasts with

these three types of feeders: fluid feeders, food-mass feeders and

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...ace area, with narrow gaps, allowing water to slowly permeate

through. Although mussels open their shells to draw in water, they

often keep them closed; this isn't only due to them being handled.

They also keep them closed to prevent themselves from drying out and

to resist common predators.

Throughout this essay I have put together a collection of information

towards filter feeding in general, and how it is useful when combined

with marine mammals. I have analysed the features of a mollusc and how

these features help it adapt to its specific means of feeding. Which

are mainly its tubing (siphons) and labial palps. I have demonstrated

the individual importance of each feature and also described the

advantages of having marine mammals within our oceans. This unique

means of feeding is efficient and full of advantages.