What Class classification places *D. polymorpha* within the Mollusca group alongside snails and squid?

Bivalvia

The placement of the Zebra Mussel within the Class Bivalvia is a fundamental aspect of its biology derived from its scientific classification. This classification immediately reveals key physiological characteristics: the organism possesses a hinged, two-part shell. This physical structure is evident when these mussels are observed attached to hard surfaces. Furthermore, being a bivalve dictates its primary method of interacting with the aquatic environment, which is through filter feeding. While Mollusca is a diverse phylum containing diverse forms like snails (Gastropoda) and octopuses (Cephalopoda), the Bivalvia class specifically groups organisms sharing this characteristic two-part shell structure and often relying on filter feeding as their main sustenance strategy.