Tongue cuts through fish scales: lamprey
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Mouth of lamprey / Mr. Theklan / License
The tongue of a lamprey can cut through fish scales and skin due to its abrasiveness.
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"In some respects, the mechanics of feeding have not been adequately explained, although the part played by the tongue is better understood. This structure is supported by a lingual cartilage, which can be moved slightly in a forward direction by paired basilariglossus muscles, originating in the basilaris and inserted on to the cartilage. The cutting lobes of the tongue are supported by an apical cartilage to which they are attached by tendons. Both Dawson (1905) and Lanzing (1959) agree that a rasping effect is largely responsible for the initial destruction of host tissue, through a rocking motion of the apical part of the tongue, produced by the protractor and retractor systems. In addition to this rasping effect, Lanzing considered that the retraction of the tongue brings together the longitudinal laminae in a scissors-like action which would be effective in cutting the host tissues." (Hardisty and Potter 1971:158)
Petromyzontidae
Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist
Application Ideas: Using abrasion to break down waste and compostible material.
Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Waste management
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