Biomicked Turbo-Force Green Mussel Glue

Remember that catchy hit from UK group Squeeze, circa 1980?

"Pulling Mussels (From The Shell)" may have been a top 10 hit, but its lyrics were far more insightful than merely just bubblegum poppy.

It turns out that there's a lot more to green mussels than meets the eye.

The inherant power of the ocean dwelling critters lies not solely in their ability to cling onto their shells.

They have what scientists refer to as sticky "feet" -- somewhat unattractive to look at, but apparently highly desirable in the chemist community.

After studying their fiberous goo strands (containing a complex composition of the amino acid tryptophan) for six long years, they have been able to biomimic their chemistry.

It may sound like a pocket-protector dream, but this research enables scientists to create stronger adhesives that work in extremely wet conditions, enabling ocean applications as well as medical and dental scenarios (such as bonding teeth and broken bones).

So, let's hear it for the humble green muscle -- not just a fantastic appetizer, but also a marvelous scientific inspiration!