The molecule is an L-alanine derivative that is L-alanine in which one of the hydrogens of the amino group is replaced by a carboxymethyl group. It is a marine metabolite which acts as a fish attractant. It has a role as a marine metabolite and an animal metabolite. It is an amino dicarboxylic acid and a L-alanine derivative. It derives from an iminodiacetic acid.
(2S)-2-(carboxymethylamino)propanoic acid