Chaetopleura papilio explained

The hairy chiton (Chaetopleura papilio) is a species of chiton in the family Chaetopleuridae. It is a marine mollusc.

Distribution

This species is found from the central Namibian coast to False Bay in South Africa, intertidally to at least 20m (70feet).^[1]

Description

The hairy chiton has brown and black banded valves. A darker stripe runs down the centre of the valves. It can grow up to 70mm in total length. The girdle is covered with black spines.^[2]

Ecology

This is a solitary animal.

Notes and References

1. Branch, G.M., Branch, M.L, Griffiths, C.L. & Beckley, L.E (2005). Two Oceans: a guide to the marine life of southern Africa
2. Kilburn, R. & Rippey, E. (1982). Sea Shells of Southern Africa. MacMillan, South Africa,