What is the function of a mollusk’s radula?

The function of a mollusk’s radula is to scrape, cut, or tear food before swallowing, helping in feeding and digestion. Mollusks are a large group of invertebrates that include snails, slugs, octopuses, and clams. Many of them have a unique feeding organ called the radula. The radula is a ribbon-like structure in the mouth that is covered with rows of tiny teeth made of chitin.

Main Functions of the Radula

• Scraping Food: The radula scrapes algae, plants, or organic matter from surfaces like rocks.
• Cutting and Tearing: Some mollusks use the radula to cut and tear food into smaller pieces.
• Assisting Digestion: By breaking food into smaller pieces, the radula makes it easier for the digestive system to process it.
• Adaptations: In carnivorous mollusks like squids, the radula is modified to work with beak-like jaws for catching prey.

Examples

• Snails use the radula to scrape plant material.
• Squids use a modified radula to shred prey.
• Chitons use it to scrape algae from rocks.