Ischnochiton contractus

Ischnochiton contractus
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Size: 4 cm

Distribution: All SA coast and gulf waters

Habitat: Rocky areas and reef under rocks

Depth: Lower intertidal to subtidal

Ischnochiton contractus
Ischnochiton contractus
Ischnochiton contractus
Ischnochiton contractus
Ischnochiton contractus

This oval-shaped chiton is commonly found under rocks in the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. It is usually an off-white in colour, with triangular streaks on either side of the dorsum and a dark-coloured girdle. Along with these characters, it can also be distinguished from similar species like I. lineolatus by the rounded nodules on the lateral areas of the valves, as well as on both terminal valves.