Byssus Formation in Mytilus

The ability of the Mytilus genus of mussels (Phylum Mollusca, Class Bivalvia, and Family Mytilidae) to adhere in marine environments has fascinated researchers from numerous disciplines of science for decades. These relatively small, sessile bivalves attach to a wide range of surfaces present in their natural intertidal and subtidal ocean habitats (rocks, wood, seaweed, other animals, and ship hulls, for example) as well as to surfaces commonly tested in research laboratory settings (glass, plastics [including Teflon®], metals, and biological materials such as teeth, bones, cells, and tissues). No single man-made product on the market to date can claim to possess such a vast application range. An understanding of the unique biological adhesive system in Mytilus species (sp.) will undoubtedly aid in the development of biomimetic glues and related products for use in virtually every industry requiring bonding of two materials.