Nutrition
Campeloma decisum's main mode of nutrition acquisition
is the same as that of most of the other organisms in class
Gastropoda: a radula.
A radula is an organ that protrudes
from the mouth, much like a tongue, and uses its
odontophore
muscles and teeth to heave forward and bring its food back into
the mouth and up to the pharynx (Hickman et al., 2007). However,
the morphology of the radula of Campeloma decisum is somewhat
different
than most of the gastropods.
The morphology of
their radula has led scientists to believe that Campeloma
decisum do not have the ability to filter feed (Dillon et
al., 2006).
Campeloma decisum do not gain the beneficial nutrients from hard
substrate (Van Appledorn et al. 2007). They are, however, capable of
grazing on soft sediments (Dillon et al., 2006).
Nevertheless, the source that gives
Campeloma decisum the most nutrients is decaying animal
flesh (Van Appledorn
et al., 2007).
This decaying animal flesh that Campeloma decisum feed on is
also known as carrion (Dillon et al., 2006).
Even though decaying material may not sound nutritious, it is
loaded with the bacteria and fungus that aid in the decay of the
material (Pearce).
These bacteria and
fungus are the providing source of nutrients that Campeloma decisum
need to prosper (Pearce).
While the nutritional aspects of Campeloma decisum are
pretty simple concepts to grasp, prepare yourself for the
reproduction complexities that lie on the next page.
Follow Campeloma
to
Reproduction to meet her
overprotective Brother Architaenioglossa
where he will tell you
that Campeloma doesn't need other boys in her life.
Questions so far? Contact
Me.
Head back Home.