General Description
Narrow, flattened oval shaped body with 8 shell sections (valves) surrounded by a fleshy girdle. Plates (valves) on top of the body are small and most are separated by skin (girdle). Brown to red-brown, or with bands of light and dark colour. Up to 12 cm long.
Biology
This worm-like chiton is known for its small valves which are embedded in a comparatively large fleshy girdle. The valves are often touching in young individuals, separating as the animal grows older. They can twist their body more than most chitons because of these small, separated plates.
Habitat
Under rocks, in tidal pools, to below low tide level, to depth of 36 m.
Reefs
Coastal shores
Distribution guide
Southern Australia.
Species Group
Sea snails and shells › Chitons
Depth
Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Water Column
Max Size
12 cm
Diet
Herbivore
Commercial Species
No
Global Dispersal
Native to Australia
Identify
Conservation Status
- DSE Advisory List : Not listed
- EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
- IUCN Red List : Not listed