Anatomy of finfish and shellfish

Unit 13 - Mollusca

13.2.8. Body Wall
The whole external surface of the body is covered by a single layer of epithelial cells, which is mostly ciliated, especially on the gills, the labial palps and the internal surface of the mantle. The skin of the foot contains glandular cells, while glandular and sensitive cells are abundant on the mantle edge. Beneath the epidermis, internal spaces of the visceral mass are occupied by the connective and muscular tissues.