Nucella lima is a carnivore that is adapted for drilling holes in prey such as limpets, barnacles (Common Acorn Barnacle, Balanus glandula), and especially bivalves (Pacific Blue Mussel, Mytilus trossulus).   The anterior sole of N. lima’s foot contains an eversible gland (accessory boring organ), which is applied to the area to be drilled.   The acidic secretion produced by this gland reduces the organic framework and demineralizes the shell of the prey.   Penetration is primarily a result of glandular activity rather than the rasping action of the radula.   N. lima drills with the radula for about a minute and then applies the eversible gland for about 30-40 minutes, repeating the cycle until the shell is penetrated.    When drilling is complete, the proboscis is extended through the hole, and the soft tissue of the prey are torn by the radula and ingested.