Definition
byssi
noun
- plural of byssus; thread-like filaments secreted by certain mollusks (such as mussels) to attach themselves to surfaces
Usage: biology; technical
Examples
- Mussels use their byssi to anchor themselves firmly to rocks in the ocean.
- The byssi of the mussel are composed of protein and are remarkably strong.
- Marine biologists study the byssi to understand how mollusks attach to substrates.
- Under the microscope, the byssi appear as delicate, thread-like structures.