General Description

Flattened oval shaped body with 8 shell sections (valves) surrounded by a fleshy girdle. Usually dark green with cream bands, girdle brown with darker bands. Up to 10 cm long.

Biology

As these animals grow older, they become overgrown with algae and other small species such as barnacles and bryozoans. The shells may also become strongly eroded, removing features present on young, small animals.

Habitat

Rock platforms on exposed coast, up to the high tide area, to depth of 16 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

On or near sea floor

Max Size

10 cm

Diet

Herbivore

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Native to Australia

Identify

• Sea Snails - Chitons

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed