Chiton tuberculatus

Long at most 7,6 cm the Chiton tuberculatus is very common in the tidal zone on the rocky coasts on the central-western area of the Atlantic Ocean up to 4 m of depth. It glues to the rocks with 8 articulated plates and like all Polyplacophora can roll up into a ball in case of danger. The visual capacity is also for this species very limited. It nourishes of algae, bryozoans and diatoms and its big strong foot is a delicacy for the sea birds, crabs, anemones and starfish. Due to the particular design of the plates is very appreciated by collectors © Giuseppe Mazza