What is the classification of animals that have soft bodies often covered by a hard shell?

Animals with soft bodies that are often covered by a hard shell belong to the classification known as mollusks. This group includes diverse organisms such as snails, clams, squids, and octopuses, many of which possess a protective hard shell made of calcium carbonate. The shell serves several purposes, including defense against predators, support for the body, and prevention of desiccation in terrestrial environments.

Mollusks are characterized by their soft, unsegmented bodies and typically have a muscular foot for movement, a mantle that secretes the shell, and a visceral mass that contains their internal organs. The hard shell can vary in form, from the coiled shells of snails to the bivalve shells of clams, showcasing the significant evolutionary adaptations within this phylum. Recognizing this distinctive feature of a soft body complemented by a hard shell is crucial for identifying mollusks within the broader context of animal classification.