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 stones in rock pools and shallow subtidal areas, 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

On or near sea floor

Max Size

12 cm

Diet

Omnivore

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