Beyond the shell: uncovering the vast, hidden world of the mollusc

Mysterious molluscs: from tiny snails to Darwin’s favourite octopus | Hidden Treasures | S2E3 · 40:50 · Video: Natural History Museum · Watch at the source

In short: Explore the diverse realm of molluscs with the Natural History Museum. From the smallest snails to the giant squid, discover what defines this group and why Charles Darwin was captivated by a tiny octopus.

The Natural History Museum in London houses over 80 million specimens, a collection that spans everything from dinosaur remains and meteorites to the elusive giant squid. This episode features Jon Ablett, the Senior Curator in Charge of Molluscs, who provides an expert look at the biological variety within the phylum.

The discussion highlights the extreme size range of these creatures, comparing the world's largest snails to their smallest counterparts. It also delves into the historical fascination Charles Darwin held for a specific tiny octopus, illustrating the enduring scientific intrigue surrounding these animals.

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