Radula Tooth Structure of the Gastropod Conus imperialis Elucidated by Scanning Electron Microscopy

Scanning electron microscopy of the hollow, harpoon-like radula tooth of the toxoglossan gastropod Conus has elucidated the structure and relationships of its component parts: apex, cutting edge, barbs, serration, adapical and basal openings of the lumen, external and internal folds of the shaft, and base. The functional roles of these components in prey capture are proposed.