Chiton

Description:

Lepidopleurus cajetanus. A species of marine mollusk of the Leptochitonidae family, comprising the most primitive polyplacophores. This species can reach 3cm long and half wide. The first and last plates of the carapace (dorsal plates) have half-circle stripes. The remainder show etched markings rising from the fleshy margin and tapering towards the tip. Light brown in color.

Habitat:

On the underside of a stone, shallow. It also appears in holes made by mollusks in stones, finding excellent natural protection. Mediterranean rocky coast. Isla Plana (Murcia).

Notes:

Male gametes are released to the external environment, and by water currents reach the female, where they enter through a pore. Fertilization occurs in the female and a trochophore larva originates that is released into the external environment and lives pelagic until it falls to the substrate, where it metamorphoses and gives rise to the adult.