Chiton olivaceus

Appearance

''Chiton olivaceus'' can reach a length of 32–40 millimetres and a width of about 16 millimetres . These large chitons have carinate plates with strongs ribs. The shell is oblong and oval. In the front and rear plates ribs have a radial pattern. The intermediate valves show a sharp beak and rounded sutural plates. Colors are very variable, ranging from olive-gray to yellow-brown, sometimes black, orange, red or yellow. The girdle surrounding all of the valves is quite large and covered by bristles and scales.

The teeth of these grazers of algae are composed of magnetite, the hardest material usable by a living being.

Distribution

This species is common in the Mediterranean sea , but can also to be found in the nearby Atlantic Ocean.

Habitat

''Chiton olivaceus'' occur on a solid substrate, particularly stones and rocks, in the zones of sweeping of the waves, at a low depth.