MEHLIS' GLANDS Meaning and Definition
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Mehlis' glands, also commonly known as shell glands, are specialized exocrine glands found in the female reproductive system of various invertebrate species, particularly in some classes of marine and freshwater mollusks. The glands are named after their discoverer, Carl Mehlis, a German zoologist.
These glands play a crucial role in the process of shell formation in mollusks. Mehlis' glands are responsible for the secretion of the calcareous components necessary to produce and maintain the protective shells of these creatures. The secretions produced by these glands contain calcium carbonate and other organic substances, which are deposited layer by layer to create the shell's structure.
The calcium carbonate secretions are released from Mehlis' glands through a duct that connects to the mantle cavity, where the mollusk forms its shell. The mantle, an important tissue that lines the inside of the shell, also contributes to the production of shell material. Together, Mehlis' glands and the mantle function harmoniously to incorporate calcium carbonate into the shell, ensuring its growth and formation.
Mehlis' glands are essential for the survival and protection of mollusks, as the shell serves as a defense mechanism against predators, environmental stressors, and provides structural support for their bodies. By producing the necessary components for shell construction, Mehlis' glands enable mollusks to adapt to their surroundings and fulfill their ecological roles.
Common Misspellings for MEHLIS' GLANDS
- Muhlis glands
- Melis glands
- Mellis glands
- Mehliss glands
Etymology of MEHLIS' GLANDS
The term "Mehlis' glands" is named after Heinrich Mehlis, a German zoologist who first described these glands in the late 19th century. The word "glands" refers to the anatomical structures in the body that secrete various substances, such as hormones or enzymes.
