Bivalve/ˈbaɪvælv/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Aquatic Life Bivalves live in water, especially oceans, rivers, and lakes. Marine biologists study bivalves in the ocean. Pro Tip 2/3Edible Varieties Some bivalves, like clams, mussels, and oysters, are eaten by humans. The menu featured a variety of bivalves including oysters on the half shell. Pro Tip 3/3Two-Part Shell Bivalve shells consist of two connected parts that can open and close. The clam's bivalve shell closed tightly as it was removed from the water.