Chiton species can be differentiated phylogenetically by their fertilization biology. The most basal order of chiton, Lepidopleurida, fertilizes eggs like molluscs; where there is a complete fusion between the egg and sperm which transfers chromatin, mitochondria and centrioles into the cytoplasm of the egg. The order Chitonida, which contains Stenoplax conspicua is shown to differ in that the sperm inject only chromatin into the cytoplasm of the egg. The mechanism by which the sperm penetrates the egg in S. conspicua is as follows: Stenoplax possess “a continuous dense layer on the surface of the egg hull that is digested by the sperm.” The egg in Stenoplax is not covered in pores, and the sperm penetrate directly. The eggs of stenoplax conspicua can be characterized by having long “hull” spines with bifurcating tips.
Stenoplax conspicua, the conspicuous chiton, is a species of polyplacophoran mollusc belonging to the family Ischnochitonidae.[1][2]
Stenoplax conspicua can reach a length of about 15.4 centimetres (6.1 in). These chitons may be gray, green and brown, commonly with pink in the middle of the valves.[3]
This species can be found in Mexico, Baja California.[4] It is found living in the intermediate and low tide zone behind tiny pebbles that are partially hidden in sand.[3]
Media related to Stenoplax conspicua at Wikimedia CommonsStenoplax conspicua, the conspicuous chiton, is a species of polyplacophoran mollusc belonging to the family Ischnochitonidae.
