With reference to the properties of snail mucus in Cepaea nemoralis, consider the following statements: 1. It utilizes collagen VI as a primary building block. 2. Calcium carbonate granules are used to adjust the viscosity and adhesiveness of the mucus. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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9 August 2026

Snail Mucus Properties

This topic provides a specific example of biomimicry and material science applications that can serve as illustrative context for answers regarding advancements in biotechnology and material engineering.

Notes

Cepaea nemoralis snails produce five distinct types of mucus for specific functions including locomotion, adhesion, and defense.
The versatility of snail mucus is achieved by 'tuning' its physical properties using calcium.
Collagen VI serves as the fundamental building block of the mucus.
Snails secrete calcium carbonate granules to modulate the thickness and stickiness of the mucus.
The ability to adjust mucus properties allows the snail to create substances ranging from lubricants to protective barriers.
Research into snail mucus properties offers potential applications in the development of new medical materials.

Questions

Discuss the potential applications of biomimetic materials in the field of medicine, with special reference to the unique properties of snail mucus. 150 words

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Prelims

With reference to the properties of snail mucus in Cepaea nemoralis, consider the following statements: 1. It utilizes collagen VI as a primary building block. 2. Calcium carbonate granules are used to adjust the viscosity and adhesiveness of the mucus. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Syllabus

Topics

Science & Technology

Sources

Snails tweak one ingredient for five mucus recipes

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