Question:medium

Which one of the following is a nektonic bivalve?

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Nektonic bivalves like Solen can swim actively, unlike benthic forms like Mytilus, Trigonia, and Gryphaea.
Updated On: Jun 1, 2026
  • Gryphaea
  • Trigonia
  • Mytilus
  • Solen
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: What nektonic means.
Nektonic animals swim actively in the water and can move against a current. This is different from animals that sit on or in the sea floor.

Step 2: Check Gryphaea and Trigonia.
Gryphaea, the devils toenail, rested on the bottom and did not swim. Trigonia was also a bottom dweller. Neither is nektonic.

Step 3: Check Mytilus.
Mytilus, the common mussel, fixes itself to rock with thread like byssus. Being anchored, it is not a swimmer.

Step 4: Check Solen.
Solen, the razor clam, uses its strong foot to push and dart through water and sediment. Among the four it best fits the active, nektonic style.

Step 5: Final choice.
So the answer is Solen.
\[ \boxed{\text{Solen}} \]
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