... mass assumes characteristic shapes as its internal structure, the radula/odontophore, moves anteriorly (protracts) or posteriorly (retracts). These shapes are especially distinctive when the radula/odontophore has protracted forwards fully, is close to its resting or neutral position, or has retracted...

...David A. Smith ABSTRACT Three models for radular feeding in gastropod molluscs have been proposed: (1) odontophoral licking, where the radula is fixed to, and is directed by, a dynamic cartilage; (2) rope-and-pulley rasping, where the radula is dynamic and slides over a static cartilage; and (3...