Dog Whelks
by Sinclair Stammers/science Photo Library
Title
Dog Whelks
Artist
Sinclair Stammers/science Photo Library
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Dog whelks exposed on a rock at low tide. Dog whelks (Nucella lapillus) are predatory sea snails (gastropods) that feed on a variety of mussels, tubeworms, barnacles, and other dog whelks. They use a modified radula (tooth) and an organ on the foot which secretes a shell-softening chemical, to bore holes in the shells of prey. They then secrete paralysing chemicals and digestive enzymes inside the shell to break down the body into a â??soupâ?? which can be sucked out.
Uploaded
October 4th, 2018
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