Glochidial cysts Formed by tissue of the host fish and surrounds the glochidium after attachement to the fish. Glochidia encyst in host tissues in 2-36 hours of attachment and may or may not grow during encystment, depending on the species. Gills Large sheet-like organs which play a dual role in respiration and feeding. The gills have a mucous lining and are covered by cilia. The cillia help to circulate water and capture food particles.
Cillary tracts move the food to the palps, which surround the mouth.
Fertilized eggs are also retained in the gills fo the female while they develop into glochidia. Growth lines Darkened lines on the surface of the shell indicating periods of rest. Used to age mussels, much like tree growth rings. H aemolymph Molluscan blood. Hinge The elastic part of the shell that unites the valves along the top of the shell.