Onithochiton literatus, the black chiton, is a medium to large-sized polyplacophoran mollusc in the family Chitonidae,[1] found on the east coast of Africa.
The species is usually brownish black, with valves incised with radiating wavy lines; these may be heavily eroded in older specimens. The broad and velvety girdle is brown to black and bears tiny embedded spicules. Adult size is 20–50 mm.[2]
Onithochiton literatus occurs along the east coast of Africa, from the Cape of Good Hope to at least as far north as Somalia and possibly into the Red Sea.[1] It is quite common and can be found along the margins of inter-tidal rock pools or more exposed on wave-washed rocks.[2]
In KwaZulu-Natal, the species is a common component of traditional medicines, and may also be collected as a food item in rural areas.[3]
Onithochiton literatus, the black chiton, is a medium to large-sized polyplacophoran mollusc in the family Chitonidae, found on the east coast of Africa.
