Mussels create byssal threads, known as the mussel’s “beard,” to attach themselves to rocks and each other. They use their sensitive foot to mold the threads from scratch and apply a waterproof ...

Marine mussels employ a suite of biomechanical strategies to attach to and persist on dynamic shorelines. Central to these strategies is the secretion of byssal threads, proteinaceous filaments that ...

A study has found microplastics, even from biodegradable packaging, can weaken their ability to produce byssal threads meaning they are unable to cling to rocks, ropes, or form mussel beds.

Mussels create byssal threads to attach themselves to rocks and each other. Mussels create byssal threads, known as the mussel's "beard," to attach themselves to rocks and each other. They use their ...