Hanleya [Hanleya]

Description

Hanleya is a genus of chitons under the family Lepidopleuridae, characterized by their unique adaptations to deep-sea environments. Unlike many other chiton genera, Hanleya species tend to inhabit colder, deeper parts of the ocean, ranging from subtidal zones to abyssal plains. These chitons have a more elongated shape compared to their shallow-water counterparts and possess plates that are less distinctly overlapping, which may be an adaptation to their deep-sea lifestyle. Hanleya chitons primarily feed on microorganisms and organic particles they find on the sea floor, using their well-developed radula. The genus is notable for its ability to withstand the high pressures and low temperatures of the deep-sea habitat.

Species

Northern Piddock [Hanleya hanleyi]

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Pacific Piddock [Hanleya nagelfar]