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Science and Nature

How Does the Mussel Grow its Beard?

See the unseen at the very edge of our visible world. Get a new perspective on our place in the universe and meet extraordinary new friends. Explore big scientific mysteries by going incredibly small.

How Does the Mussel Grow its Beard?

Season 10 Episode 3 | 4m 0s | CC

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 adhesive that makes superglue jealous.

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