Smooth Mail-Shell

Callochiton septemvalvis

The Smooth Mail-shell is a medium-sized chiton with a shell measuring between 15 to 25 mm. Its shell is smooth, broad, and oval-shaped, displaying a red brick to orange coloration. While the eight valves appear smooth to the naked eye, they actually consist of diagonal ridges and small granules that can only be seen under a microscope. The body of this chiton is wide, making up about half or more of its total length, and it features a broad girdle covered in small spicules. This species inhabits shallow waters across Europe, ranging from the intertidal zone down to depths of 1000 m. Its distribution extends from Scandinavia to the Canary Islands and includes the Mediterranean and Red Seas. The Smooth Mail-shell is often found on red coralline algae and other hard substrates, making it a common sight for divers exploring these areas. As a grazer, the Smooth Mail-shell primarily feeds on algae and may also consume organic sediments. Its reproductive cycle involves laying eggs that hatch into planktonic larvae, which eventually settle on the ocean floor as young adults. Encounters with this chiton during dives can be intriguing, as they often blend into their surroundings and may require a keen eye to spot. The conservation status of the Smooth Mail-shell is currently listed as Not Evaluated.