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West Indian Green Chiton

The West Indian fuzzy chiton, Chiton tuberculatus, boasts a distinctive segmented shell adorned with bristles, aiding its grip on wave-battered rocks. This algae-grazer is crucial for ecosystem balance in Caribbean intertidal zones, showcasing resilience and a unique adaptation to its challenging environment.

Length: 28 - 4318 cm
Size
Low
Aggression
Characteristics
Chiton tuberculatus, commonly known as the West Indian fuzzy chiton, is a marine mollusk found in the rocky intertidal zones of the Caribbean. It possesses a unique, oval-shaped shell composed of eight overlapping plates, covered with fuzzy bristles. This chiton clings tightly to rocks, grazing on algae, and plays a role in maintaining the ecological balance of its habitat.
Distribution Range of the West Indian Green Chiton
Chiton tuberculatus, commonly known as the West Indian Fuzzy Chiton, is native to the Caribbean region. It is predominantly found along the coasts of the Caribbean Sea, including the Greater and Lesser Antilles, and the southern tip of Florida. Its distribution extends to the Gulf of Mexico and parts of the Atlantic coast of Central and South America.
West Indian Green Chiton's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
Chiton tuberculatus typically inhabits rocky intertidal zones. It is adapted to environments where it can attach to hard substrates, such as rocks and coral reefs. The species thrives in areas with strong wave action and tidal fluctuations, which provide the necessary conditions for feeding and shelter.
Ecological Niche
The West Indian Fuzzy Chiton occupies a niche as a grazer in the marine ecosystem. It feeds on algae and biofilm that grow on the surfaces of rocks and coral. Its presence helps control algal growth, contributing to the ecological balance of the intertidal zone. The chiton's ability to cling tightly to rocks allows it to withstand the harsh conditions of the intertidal environment, including desiccation and predation.