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Tonicella lineata (Lined chiton)
Copyright ©
2005 Mary Jo Adams
Spotting
a lined chiton is a real treat! These are best described with one
word: gorgeous! This is a small chiton, 2 inches or less in
length. The distinguishing feature of the lined chiton is that it
has zigzag lines on the plates. Colors of this species vary
and may include pink, red, white, black, purple, gold, or brown.
The encircling girdle is usually dark with light colored patches.
Look for it in low intertidal rocky areas where you find red encrusting
coralline algae. Predators of lined chitons include the purple
sea star ( Pisaster ochraceus ), the six-rayed sea star
( Leptasterias sp .), and the Northern clingfish ( Gobiesox
maeandricus ).
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This page was created by Mary Jo Adams on 11/22/05.
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