Biochemistry
Chitin
A tough, protective polysaccharide that forms the exoskeletons of insects and crustaceans and the cell walls of fungi. The second most abundant natural polymer after cellulose.
Biological Context
Chitin provides structural support and protection. Arthropods must molt to grow because their chitinous exoskeleton cannot expand. Fungi use chitin instead of cellulose for cell walls. Chitin is biodegradable but highly resistant to most digestive enzymes.
Business Application
Organizational chitin: the hard protective structures that define boundaries—contracts, intellectual property, regulatory moats. Like biological chitin, they protect but also constrain growth; periodic 'molting' may be necessary.