Radula

Radula is a unique anatomical structure found in mollusks, used primarily for feeding. The radula is typically composed of numerous rows of tiny teeth, and is used to scrape or cut food before the food enters the esophagus.

Structure

The radula is a flexible, tongue-like strip of tissue, covered with rows of microscopic, chitinous teeth. The number, shape, and specialized arrangement of these teeth can be very different in various types of mollusks.

Function

The radula is used by mollusks for feeding. It works like a file, scraping or cutting food into small pieces.

Types of Radula

There are several types of radulae, including:

• Docoglossan radula: This type of radula has few teeth, which are large and strong.
• Rhipidoglossan radula: This radula type has numerous small teeth.
• Taenioglossan radula: This radula has seven teeth in each row.

See Also

• Mollusks
• Anatomy of Mollusks
• Feeding Mechanisms in Mollusks

References

Radula Resources
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