''Notoplax violacea'' is a species of

chiton Chitons () are marine molluscs of varying size in the class Polyplacophora (), formerly known as Amphineura. About 940 extant and 430 fossil species are recognized. They are also sometimes known as gumboots or sea cradles or coat-of-mail s ...

in the

family Family (from la, familia) is a Social group, group of people related either by consanguinity (by recognized birth) or Affinity (law), affinity (by marriage or other relationship). The purpose of the family is to maintain the well-being of its ...

Acanthochitonidae Acanthochitonidae is a family of chitons, marine molluscs in the class Polyplacophora. Description These small to large chitons are characterised by a broad girdle with erect tufts of up to ten large bristles. The coarsely granular valves of the ...

, endemic to all coasts of

New Zealand New Zealand ( mi, Aotearoa ) is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of two main landmasses—the North Island () and the South Island ()—and over 700 smaller islands. It is the sixth-largest island count ...

, where it is common in northern areas.

Description

This notable chiton can grow up to 62mm long and is distinguished by a wide fleshy girdle that is orange in most individuals, sometimes covered in a greenish algal growth. The reduced

valves A valve is a device or natural object that regulates, directs or controls the flow of a fluid (gases, liquids, fluidized solids, or slurries) by opening, closing, or partially obstructing various passageways. Valves are technically fittings ...

are sculptured in purple patterns often with white markings, with pustules in lateral areas and five strong radial ribs on the head valve. The ventral underside is orange, a thin film covers the off-white mantle and is easily removed.

Habitat

Found on rocky coasts, usually under the larger boulders encrusted in sessile animals such as bryozoans, small barnacles and ascidians. ''N. violacea'' preys on these and is assumed to be mainly carnivorous in its diet. Ranges from the mid-intertidal zone down to around 15 metres deep.

References

* Powell A. W. B., ''New Zealand Mollusca'', William Collins Publishers Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand 1979 {{Taxonbar, from=Q3073832 violacea Chitons of New Zealand Chitons described in 1835