Preface

Over the last few decades, the science of zoology has been witnessing a paradigm shift in research on malacology, which is the study of molluscs. Scientists of diverse disciplines are showing their research interest in molecular biology, cognition physiology, paleoecology, and other areas of malacological science. Their works provide us with a better understanding of the evolution, ethology, survival strategy, and molecular physiology of Mollusca, the second-largest phylum on the planet. In general, molluscs exhibit a marked variation in terms of body plan, adaptation, ecology, and physiological organization.

This book is a compilation of high-impact research articles on the frontier areas of molluscan biology, physiology, aquaculture, and paleoecology. The edited volume is representative of the current trends in global malacological research. It also highlights the basic and applied significance of molluscs inhabiting diverse habitats.

Chapters discuss the role and implications of different species of molluscs on nutrition, ecophysiology, farming, and paleoecology. As animals inhabiting terrestrial, freshwater, estuarine, and marine environments, molluscs have ecological, economical, evolutionary, biotechnological, cell biological, and paleontological significance. constitutes. They exhibit variation in morphology, body colour, food preference, and physiology. This book focuses on the various aspects of malacological research pursued in different parts of the world. Topics covered include effects of dietary intake of shellfish in humans, beneficial effects of herbal compounds on the cognitive ability of molluscs, seasonal variation of molluscs acting as intermediate hosts of human parasites, current understanding of freshwater pearl culture, and the role of environmental parameters on the infectivity of freshwater snails and their paleoecological aspects.

This book is a collection of informative articles written by scientists who are experts in the field. It is a rich source of information for students and researchers working in basic and applied malacology.
