Onithochiton literatus

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.

Onithochiton literatus
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Animalia
Phylum:
Mollusca
Class:
Polyplacophora
Order:
Chitonida
Family:
Chitonidae
Genus:
Onithochiton
Species:
O. literatus
Binomial name
Onithochiton literatus
Krauss, 1848
Synonyms
  • Chiton literatus Krauss, 1848

Description

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

O. 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

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
  1. E. Schwabe (2015). "Chiton politus". WoRMS. World Register of Marine Species. Retrieved 29 December 2016.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.


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