By Nur Rohmatin Isnaningsih
The radula, a specialized feeding organ found in gastropods, is traditionally regarded as a stable and conservative anatomical feature, often employed in taxonomic classification and phylogenetic analyses within specific taxa. However, it is important to note that the radula's characteristics can also exhibit ecophenotypic variability, thereby potentially reflecting intraspecific variations and aiding in species differentiation. Understanding the specific morphology of the radula within the Thiaridae family is particularly significant for accurate species classification.
In this study, five radulae specimens of Thiaridae from Raja Ampat were enzymatically extracted using proteinase-K. The examination of these radulae revealed that all five species under investigation exhibited the taeniglossan radula type. The radular band measured between 1.8 and 4.8 mm in length and comprised marginal teeth, lateral teeth, and a rachidian tooth. The radula formula was determined to be 2/1/R/1/2, with a rachidian pattern of 3-4/1/3-4 and a lateral teeth pattern of 2-3/1/2-3. Variations in the mesocone shape of both the rachidian and lateral teeth were observed, ranging from rounded to pointed configurations.
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