We think the Lined Chiton (Tonicella lineata) is the most beautiful of all the chitons in the tidepools. Happily, they are often found during a low tide on surf-swept rock surfaces covered in coralline algae (the pink algae pictured below, both branching and encrusting). Coralline alage is this chiton's main source of food. Lined Chitons are only two inches long, and their wide variety of intricate patterns and colors (red, pink, purple, yellow, and white) camouflage them well, so you will have to have a sharp eye to spot them.
Most Chitons are light-sensitive and are found hiding under ledges (see photo below), rocks, or snuggled into crevices during daylight hours. The Lined Chiton, like the Black Leather Chiton, does not need protection from the sun, and is often found boldly exposed on rock faces. They are often the prey of Ochre Sea Stars.
You've provided really helpful, interesting information about these chitons, and I look forward to finding and photographing some at the end of this month, when the tides get low enough. Your photos are really good, too!
Posted by: Rosemarie Arbur, Klamath Falls | August 15, 2011 at 10:16 PM