Researchers unravel secrets of mussels' clinginess
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 - 10:30
in Physics & Chemistry
Unlike barnacles, which cement themselves tightly to the surfaces of rocks, piers or ships, the clamlike bivalves called mussels dangle more loosely from these surfaces, attached by a collection of fine filaments known as byssus threads. This approach lets the creatures drift further out into the water, where they can absorb nutrients—although in the process, it exposes them to the risk of being torn away by the force of crashing waves.