Chitons [Chitonidae]

Description

Chitonidae is the largest family of chitons, containing many species that are characterized by their oval bodies covered with eight articulating aragonite plates. These marine polyplacophorans are found in various habitats from shallow waters to deep sea. Members of this family often display a wide range of colors and patterns on their plates, which are used for camouflage. They possess a muscular foot for movement and a radula for feeding on algae. Chitonidae species are known for their ability to tightly adhere to rocks and other hard surfaces in intertidal zones, making them difficult to dislodge.