Limpets are among the most abundant and familiar features of the world's coastlines.
They are perhaps most famous simply for their ability to cling onto rocks, but have never earned the level of global respect they truly deserve, according to a new study.
Published in the International Review of Environmental History, the study is the result of ongoing scientific and historical research by Dr Louise Firth, Associate Professor of Marine Ecology at the University of Plymouth.
It aims to rewrite the reputation of limpets and ensure their significance to human civilisations going back tens of thousands of years is truly and accurately recognised.
Dr Firth added:
"In comparison to other molluscs - which are renowned for their gastronomic, economic or aesthetic value - the limpet does not win any prizes. However, they have undoubtedly contributed to the evolution of the large, complex, metabolically expensive brain characterised by modern Homo sapiens. Today, they are considered a delicacy in many cultures and feature in myriad traditions, superstitions and folklore. And while they are not exploited on a global scale, there are many regions where populations are vulnerable to over-exploitation and possible extinction, meaning that appropriate management is required if we are to protect these underappreciated animals."
- The full study - What have limpets ever done for us? On the past and present provisioning and cultural services of limpets by Dr Louise Firth - is published in International Review of Environmental History, DOI: 10.22459/IREH.07.02.2021.01.
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