Chitons are marine molluscs that have an outer “shell” made of 8 overlapping plates. This structure allows their bodies to flex as they travel, and some chitons can curl up into a ball. Chitons can be found world-wide, on hard surfaces such and are frequently found in rocky intertidal areas.
These two chitons, the mossy chiton, Mopalia muscosa (left), and the lined chiton, Tonicella lineata (right) were spotted during a tour at FMR by Volunteer Naturalist Marsha Cohen. The less frequently seen, colorful lined chiton is conveniently located next to its favorite food, encrusting pink coralline algae.
Photo and text by Elaine Reade