About Dinoplax gigas (Gmelin, 1791)
Dinoplax gigas, formally described by Gmelin in 1791, typically grows to around 110 millimetres (4.3 in) in length, with exceptional individuals reaching up to 170 millimetres (6.7 in). This large chiton species has an elongate, oval, carinate body shape that is moderately elevated. Its valves are strongly arched, and coloured grey or brown. The species' leathery girdle is greyish or brown, marked with black spots and bearing tufts of short hairs. Dinoplax gigas is distributed along the South African coast, ranging from the Cape Peninsula to Durban, and occurs subtidally down to at least 5 metres in depth. Ecologically, this chiton hides under rocks during the day and emerges at night.
