University of Tasmania, Australia

Veliger larva

Taxonomy

Description

• The characteristic developmental stage of most mollusc groups, with the exception of cephalopods (squid and octopus).

Distinguishing characteristics

• Can bear some resemblance to the adult as the shell, foot, eyes and other organs develop.
• Main characteristic feature of the larva is the velum, the swimming organ, which comprises two large semi-circular lobes bearing long cilia along the perimeter.

Distribution

• Can be seasonally abundant when marine snails, limpets, abalone, sea slugs, oysters and mussels etc. disperse their larvae into the water.

Ecology

• Can be non-feeding or feeding stages.
• Feeding stage uses the velum for suspension feeding as well as for swimming.
• The velum is shed before settlement and the adoption of benthic life.