Yellow Chiton Onithochiton quercinus

Form:

The Yellow Chiton has low, flat valves, covered by wavy markings. The shell plates are nearly always eroded.

This chiton has a distinctive, wide, leathery girdle, which appears smooth. However, the girdle is covered with minute spicules which are too small to be seen with the eye. What appears to be rows of black spots across the valves are light sensitive organs called shell eyes.

Colour:

The variable colours of the shell are often brilliant and well defined.

Distribution:

The Yellow Chiton has a split distribution. The eastern form ranges from Mackay, Queensland down to southern New South Wales. The western form ranges from Esperance to the Houtman Abrolhos in Western Australia.

Habitat:

This chiton is often found on horizontal rock surfaces over which the surf rolls.

It usually shelters in cracks and crannies, or in pools. It may be found at mid-tide level and below. The chitons found at exposed sites often have heavily eroded shells.

References:

Bennett, I. (1987) W.J. Dakin's classic study: Australian Seashores. p.261, Angus & Robertson, Sydney.

Davey, K. (1998) A Photographic Guide to Seashore Life of Australia. p.73, New Holland, Sydney.

Edgar, G.J. (1997) Australian Marine Life: the plants and animals of temperate waters. p.226, Reed Books, Kew.

Molluscs
Chitons

Spiculed Chiton
Snake-skinned Chiton
Yellow Chiton
Mysterious Chiton

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