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Abstract
The radula teeth of the littoral gastropod, Nerita atramentosa, have been analysed using energy dispersive spectrometry. The matrix of the mature major lateral teeth contains sulfur, chlorine, potassium, calcium and magnesium. The teeth are tanned, and additionally hardened by the possession of biomineralised granules which contain sulfur, chlorine and calcium, together with a large range of other elements including silicon, aluminium, titanium, chromium, iron, nickel , and manganese. These granules, which are incorporated into the matrix of the teeth, result in a surface comparable to sandpaper which presumably serves to increase the abrasive properties of the major laterals. In contrast, the marginal teeth, which are only used for sweeping food particles into the mouth, are not mineralised to the same extent and do not contain granules. This approach to the biomineralisation of their teeth may well have contributed to the competitive success of N. atrementosa in the littoral environment.