Hairy chiton
Chaetopleura papilio
Fun Fact: They have smooth and shiny shell valves and a wide girdle.
Introduction: Hairy chitons (Chaetopleura papilio) have smooth and shiny shell valves and a wide girdle. Look under rocks in low-tide pools to find this species.
Distribution: Throughout Namibian waters including Möwe Bay, Henties Bay, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, Sandwich Harbour and Luderitz.
Diet: Underwater minute plant matter
Colouration: Alternating light and dark brown stripes. The sides are often speckled with light blue. The girdle is brown with a thin covering of black bristles, hence the common name.
Max size: 70mm
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