worm chiton
Cryptoplax larvaeformis
This species is common in the subtidal where it is found on from tropical coral reefs as well as subtropical rocky shores. In WA it is known from Northwest Cape all across the top end to Queensland associated with hard substrates.
Morphology
This species is medium-sized to large (6 cm) but has a distinctly different shape than most other chitons. It is notably elongate, with reduced valves along the dorsum that enhance the worm-like appearance. The girdle is cream to beige colored, mottled and very fleshy.
Behaviour
Fast moving (for a chiton), nocturnally active or cryptic (e.g. under rocks, etc)
Method of reproduction
Cryptoplax larvaeformis, like A. spinosa and other chitons have male and female individuals. Each sex releases gametes into the water column where fertilization takes place.
Habitat
Marine
Subtidal on complex reef habitats, nocturnally active or cryptic (e.g. under rocks, etc)
Distribution
Indo-west Pacific. In Australia, the Australian Faunal Directory reports it from the Houtman Abrolhos in WA across to northern NSW.
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Polyplacophora |
| Subclass: | Neoloricata |
| Order: | Chitonida |
| Suborder: | Acanthochitonina |
| Superfamily: | Cryptoplacoidea |
| Family: | Cryptoplacidae |
| Genus: | Cryptoplax |
| Species: | larvaeformis |
| Name Published Year: | 1815 |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name Authorship: | Burrow |
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/Cryptoplax-larvaeformis
Accessed 1 May 2025
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