Final answer:
Cadherins are calcium-dependent glycoproteins crucial for cell-cell adhesion and recognition in animal cells, forming part of the cellular glycocalyx and adherens junctions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cadherins are Ca²⁺ -dependent adhesive glycoproteins that function in animal cell-cell recognition and adhesion. These proteins are key components of the cellular glycocalyx and play a crucial role in forming adherens junctions such as desmosomes, which are necessary for the creation of cohesive tissues and cell sheets. The glycocalyx itself is a fuzzy-appearing coating around cells, formed from glycoproteins and other carbohydrates attached to the cell membrane that, among other functions, facilitate cell-to-cell adhesion, recognize hormones via receptors, and break down nutrients.