Chiton
(Tonicella lineata)
Found worldwide from cold waters to the tropics typically on hard surfaces like rocks and crevices.
Ranges based on species from a few millimeters, 1 - 2cm (0.3 - 0.7in), even up to 35cm (14in).
Feeds on Algae, Bryozoans, Diatoms, Barnacles, and sometimes Bacteria. Some species catch small Invertebrates, like Shrimp and even small Fish.
Lives for 1 - 20 years. Can even live even up to 40 years depending on species.
A Chiton's shell is formed out of Aragonite, a naturally occurring mineral it uses for defense. Sometimes it even rolls up like an armadillo for enhanced protection!
A Chiton's teeth are made of Magnetite, the hardest material created by a living organism and stronger than steel! It uses these teeth to scrape algae and other food off of rocks.