Stalked Chiton [Placiphorella velata]
Description
The Stalked Chiton, also known as Placiphorella velata, is a unique marine species belonging to the family of chitons. It is distinguished by its distinct body shape, which is elongated and its shell plates are partially covered by a girdle. This peculiar species is found in the intertidal zones and subtidal zones of the Pacific Ocean, specifically from Alaska to Southern California. It is also unique for its feeding behavior as it primarily feeds on the hydroids that grow on kelp.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Chitons
Polyplacophora
|
| Order |
Acanthochitonina
Acanthochitonina
|
| Family |
Hairy Chitons
Mopaliidae
|
| Genus |
Placiphorella
Placiphorella
|