Molluscs and Turtles: Shell Growth and Pearl Formation

This lecture covers the anatomy and growth of mollusc shells, including gastropods, cephalopods, and bivalves. It explores the self-similar shape inheritance in shells, the growth rates, and the life cycle of scallops. Additionally, it delves into the dynamics of turtle shell growth, focusing on the tiling, matter deposition, and curvature correction. The stationary existence of shell mouths in sea snails is discussed, along with the growth mechanisms involving aragonite and bio calcite. The lecture concludes with the process of pearl formation, detailing the secretion of pearl layers and the harvesting of pearls from grafted oysters.