Status ofCallochiton kapitiensisMestayer, 1926 andOcellochitonAshby, 1939 (Mollusca: Polyplacophora)

Abstract

Abstract The chiton Callochiton kapitiensis Mestayer, 1926 is redescribed, including characters not recorded by Mestayer. The radula is described and illustrated for the first time. The distribution is recorded and a synonymy provided. Records of Callochiton puniceus Gould, 1846 from New Zealand which have led to its inclusion in the New Zealand chiton fauna refer to specimens of Callochiton kapitiensis Mestayer. Characters separating the 2 species are presented. Van Belle (1983) considered the subgenus Ocellochiton Ashby, 1939 to be of genus rank; if his criteria are followed, Mestayer's species should belong here. The significance of this and the status of Ocellochiton are discussed. Ocellochiton Ashby, 1939 is regarded as a synonym of Callochiton Gray, 1847.