CURRENT USES

Neurological research

Opisthobranchs are most valuable for humans in neurophysiological research, to better understand how the human brain works (Debelius 1998). Many species have nerve cells of large size: nearly a millimeter in diameter in some. The neurons are large and consistent in their position and colouration, that corresponding cells can be readily located in different individuals. A physiologists are able to link specific nerves to complex body actions, they can be sure of what they are finding.

Anti-cancer medicine

A sister species of Opisthobranch to H. physis, the Eared Sea Hare, Dolabella auricularia, produces the most potent anti-cancer compound known to medicine (Debelius 1998)


The aforementioned uses and applications of Opistobranchs support the importance to preserve and ensure the conservation of species as they continue to contribute to research and our growing knowledge.