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gaper (GAY-puhr) - n., any of several large bivalve mollusks including the soft-shell clam.
So called because there's a small gap present in the hinge. The name seems to apply to the family Mactridae, but there's a lot of variation -- as well as several other kinds of animals (including a couple birds and a fish) that have also been called gapers. Plus, of course, the common meaning of someone who gapes their mouth. But that sense doesn't fit the week's theme.
Which is now wrapped up -- back with the regular mix next week.
---L.
So called because there's a small gap present in the hinge. The name seems to apply to the family Mactridae, but there's a lot of variation -- as well as several other kinds of animals (including a couple birds and a fish) that have also been called gapers. Plus, of course, the common meaning of someone who gapes their mouth. But that sense doesn't fit the week's theme.
Which is now wrapped up -- back with the regular mix next week.
---L.
