| Onithochiton literatus | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Polyplacophora |
| Order: | Chitonida |
| Family: | Chitonidae |
| Genus: | Onithochiton |
| Species: | O. literatus
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| Binomial name | |
| Onithochiton literatus (Krauss, 1848)
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| Synonyms | |
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Onithochiton literatus, the black chiton, is a medium to large-sized polyplacophoran mollusc in the family Chitonidae,[1] found on the east coast of Africa.
Description[edit]
The species is usually brownish black, with valves incised with radiating wavy lines; these may be heavily eroded in older specimens. The broad and velvety girdle is brown to black and bears tiny embedded spicules. Adult size is 20–50 mm.[2]
Distribution and habitat[edit]
Onithochiton literatus occurs along the east coast of Africa, from the Cape of Good Hope to at least as far north as Somalia and possibly into the Red Sea.[1] It is quite common and can be found along the margins of inter-tidal rock pools or more exposed on wave-washed rocks.[2]
Use by humans[edit]
In KwaZulu-Natal, the species is a common component of traditional medicines, and may also be collected as a food item in rural areas.[3]
References[edit]
- ^ a b E. Schwabe (2015). "Chiton politus". WoRMS. World Register of Marine Species. Retrieved 29 December 2016.
- ^ a b Branch, G. M.; Griffiths, C. L.; Branch, M. L.; Beckley, L. E. (2010). Two Oceans: a Guide to the Marine Life of Southern Africa. Cape Town: Struik Nature.
- ^ Herbert, D. G.; Hamer, M. L.; Mander, M.; Mkhize, N.; Prins, F. (2003). "Invertebrate animals as a component of the traditional medicine trade in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa". African Invertebrates. 44 (2): 327–344.