Chaetopleura debruini is a species of chiton, a type of marine mollusk with a shell composed of eight overlapping plates. It is a relatively common species found in a variety of habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Chaetopleura debruini, like all chitons, possesses a characteristically flattened body with a dorsal shell. This shell, composed of eight articulated plates, provides protection for the animal. The plates are typically a mottled brown or gray color, often with darker markings. The species can reach a maximum size of approximately 25 millimeters in length.
Habitat and Occurrence
Chaetopleura debruini is a marine species typically found in the intertidal zone and shallow subtidal waters, often attached to rocks or seaweed. Its distribution encompasses a range of marine zones, including the infralittoral and circalittoral zones. These zones represent the area between the lowest tide mark and the edge of the continental shelf, highlighting the species’ adaptability to different depth ranges.
Taxonomy
Chaetopleura debruini belongs to the Class Polyplacophora, the class of chitons. This class is further divided into several orders, including the Order Chitonida, which includes the species Chaetopleura debruini. Finally, the family Chaetopleuridae, known for its unique features among chitons, is the group to which Chaetopleura debruini belongs.
Feeding
Chaetopleura debruini is a herbivore, primarily feeding on algae and diatoms. Its feeding habits are crucial to the balance of its ecosystem. These chitons use their radula, a tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape algae off surfaces, playing an important role in the control of algal growth in their habitats.
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