This page last revised: 9-18-2011
Family Mopaliidae
This
is the largest family of chitons in the Northwest. Two species
are notable for the girdle almost, or completely, covering the plates.
The remaining species all have hairs(setae) on the girdle in
varying amounts. Most of the species also exhibit a wide range of
colors and patterning. One genus is notable in that the girdle
broadens significantly at the anterior end. Family Leptochitonidae
Tiny species, typically less than 15mm long
with generally pale-colored plates and girdle
This
species is small. The plates are split down the mid-line by
cartilage-like tissue. (Best seen under magnification.)
In
this family the girdle and plates appear smooth. Various patterns
of red and white lines and markings are typical of many of the species.
Blue flecks and lines are also typical of some of the species.
The girdle is usually banded.
Chitons (Polyplacophora)
(Northern California to Southeast Alaska)
Click on the name of the Family to view the species within that category.
A representative of each species is shown.
