Carnegie Museum of Natural History was founded in 1895. Malacology (the study of mollusks) has been an integral part of the Museum of Natural History since the museum's establishment. These pages will introduce you to the interesting world of mollusks. You will read about the ways different cultures have used mollusks throughout history. You can also learn about the history of the Section of Mollusks, including the curators and other notable people associated with the Section. Finally, learn about what is in the collection.

Section News

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The American Malacological Society, founded in 1931, will hold its annual meeting in Pittsburgh during the summer of 2011. This will be the third time Carnegie Museum of Natural History has played a significant role in this meeting.

In 1965–1966, then-curator Juan Jose Parodiz (1911–2007), as president of the American Malacological Society, hosted the annual meeting. In 1999, the annual meeting was again held in Pittsburgh, and Carnegie staff provided access to the collections and helped lead field trips.

In 2011, researchers will present talks on snails, clams, octopus, and much more. Among the many events will be a behind-the-scenes tour of Carnegie Museum of Natural History's Section of Mollusks and field trips led by museum personel. In addition, museum staff and volunteers are involved in all aspects of planning for this yearly event.