Tonniopsis [Tonniopsis]

Description

Tonniopsis is a genus within the family Callochitonidae, distinguished by its members' unique morphological features. These scaled chitons possess a similar armor of eight plates characteristic of chitons, but they are notable for variations in the texture and pattern of the girdle compared to the Callochiton genus. The girdle in Tonniopsis species is typically less adorned but may exhibit fine scales or granulations. These creatures are found in a range of marine environments, where they graze on microscopic algae and biofilms on surfaces. The specific adaptations in the girdle's texture and the plates' morphology help in identifying the genus within the diverse chiton family, highlighting its evolutionary responses to ecological niches.

Species

Tonniopsis nodifera [Tonniopsis nodifera]

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Tonniopsis mirabilis [Tonniopsis mirabilis]