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| Bivalves and Chitons |
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Student pages |
Cryptochiton stelleri
Cryptochiton stelleri can be found in the rocky intertidal habitats on the open coast within the lower intertidal to subtidal zones4,6. C. stelleri is the largest chiton known and can reach 33 cm in length4,6. This is an easily recognizable chiton, considering that the eight shells are covered by a thick red-brown girdle and that it is much larger than other chiton species4,6. C. stelleri uses its radula to eat red algae from the rocky substrate3,4. Similar to other chitons, C. stelleri release gametes directly into the planktonic environment where fertilization occurs3. Additionally, gas exchange is preformed through paired gills3.
This wab page is part of the UWT Marine Ecology course project |
