Functional morphology of the molluscan radula, an integrative approach

• Applicant: Dr. Wencke Krings
• Subject Area: Systematics and Morphology (Zoology)
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 470833544

The radula of the molluscs is a highly important autapomorphy, extremely diverse and complex in its functions. This mechanical interface between the organism and its ingesta (food, substrate) has been of high research interest in the last decades, but essential questions remain unanswered: the precise motion of this organ, the precise functions of its teeth (scratching, gathering, reinforcing, etc.) and the radular supporting structures, or the interaction of the small, morphologically distinct radular teeth with the ingesta surface and among themselves. In the here presented project, integrating shape, motion, material and mechanical properties, and modelling, a gastropod model system (Neritidae) is introduced targeting the profound understanding of radular function. Goals are feeding simulation via finite-element analysis (FEA) and 3D printing of radular teeth which will be integrated into first complex physical radular models. These models will be examined while interacting with surfaces of distinct roughness. The here proposed project is the first one of its kind. The resulting deeper understanding of radular and radular tooth function will be transferred in subsequent studies to other molluscan species, fossil and recent, and will contribute to our knowledge of its functionality and its evolution.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants