Image of Cryptochitoninae Pilsbry 1893

Description:

Another photo of the underside. Photo by Dave Cowles, San Simeon, CA April 1997 This species was formerly abundant at San Simeon, CA. During the latter years of the 1990's I (Dave Cowles) observed large numbers decomposing and washing up onto the beach. I suspect a disease was affecting them. Those washing ashore were blotched, as some living individuals are. I wonder if the blotching seen in living individuals is a sign of disease? Far fewer can be found there now.