equivalve

American  

[ee-kwuh-valv] / ˈi kwəˌvælv /

adjective

1. (of a bivalve mollusk) having the valves of the shell equal in shape and size.

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Etymology

Origin of equivalve

First recorded in 1860–65; equi- + valve

Example Sentences

A bivalve is said to be equivalve when the two shells composing it are of the same size, inequivalve when they are not.

From Sea-Weeds, Shells and Fossils by Gray, Peter

Shell transverse, equivalve, not affixed, the tops decorticated.

From Zoological Illustrations, Volume I or Original Figures and Descriptions of New, Rare, or Interesting Animals by Swainson, William

Shell bivalve, equivalve, very transversely elongated, open at both ends.

From Zoological Illustrations, Volume I or Original Figures and Descriptions of New, Rare, or Interesting Animals by Swainson, William

Shell longitudinal, wedge-shaped, equivalve, the valves gaping; the umbones straight, pointed.

From Zoological Illustrations, Volume III or Original Figures and Descriptions of New, Rare, or Interesting Animals by Swainson, William