Broad chiton
| broad chiton | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Subkingdom: | Metazoa |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Polyplacophora |
| Subclass: | Neoloricata |
| Order: | Chitonida |
| Suborder: | Chitonina |
| Superfamily: | Chitonoidea |
| Family: | Callochitonidae |
| Genus: | Callochiton |
| Species: | C. castaneus |
| Binomial name | |
| Callochiton castaneus[1] (Woods, 1815) | |
The broad chiton, Callochiton castaneus, is a species of chitons in the family Callochitonidae. It is a marine mollusc. It is endemic to South Africa.
Distribution
This species is found from Port Nolloth to Kosi Bay, subtidally to around 5 m.[2]
Description
The broad chiton is a flattened chiton with granular dark-brown to orange-red valves. It can grow up to 60 mm in total length. The girdle is velvety.[3]
Ecology
This is a solitary animal. It is more frequently seen during night dives.
References
- ↑ http://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php search term Callochiton accessed 7 April 2010
- ↑ Branch, G.M., Branch, M.L, Griffiths, C.L. and Beckley, L.E (2005): Two Oceans: a guide to the marine life of southern Africa ISBN 0-86486-672-0
- ↑ Kilburn, R. and Rippey, E. Sea Shells of Southern Africa MacMillan South Africa 1982 ISBN 0-86954-094-7
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