Modelling crushing crab predation on bivalve prey using finite element analysis

Amongst the many adaptive features of a bivalve shell, valve shape has been hypothesised to increase structural stability and to aid in withstanding crushing predation. Using Finite Element Analysis we modelled the crushing attack of a crab on a hard clam, soft clam, and blue mussel, assessing the effect of shell shape, size and thickness on their structural performance. Nanoindentation tests provide data on material properties. The hard clam is...