Glistening Red-Pink Fluorescence of an Armoured Mollusc

Chitons – flat molluscs common in tide pools – have shells that emit a vibrant red-pink colour when exposed to blue light. This unexpected display of fluorescent colors may actually serve as a defense mechanism, helping the chitons avoid detection by predators. However, some researchers remain skeptical about this theory.

Chitons belong to an ancient branch of the mollusc family tree. Unlike their snail and clam relatives, chitons have shells composed of eight separate plates that run along their backs.

According to Guido Grimaldi, some chitons have plates that are colored in a way that potentially provides camouflage from predators.