Biological aspects of theoretical shell morphology

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Abstract
Among the available methods in theoretical shell morphology, moving-frame methods produce the broadest range of shell shapes and appear to emulate most closely the biological processes involved in shell morphogenesis and growth. In addition, moving-frame methods can easily be enhanced in both respects by adding operations that are similar in nature to the original procedures. Improvements beyond this point, however, require a qualitative change in approach. The focus of attention must be transferred from the shell to the soft parts involved in shell construction. This may be done by (1) regarding the soft parts as pneus, and (2) controlling their shape and metabolism through morphogenetic programmes based on biochemical reactions.