Scientists identify a new species of living fossil.

Researchers described Acanthochitona feroxa, a newly identified chiton species from specimens collected off South Korea, based on differences in shell features and mitochondrial genomes.

Scientists have identified a previously unrecognized chiton species, named Acanthochitona feroxa. Chitons are marine mollusks in the class Polyplacophora that are often called living fossils because of their long evolutionary history and persistent body plans. Biologists Hyang Kim and Ui Wook Hang examined specimens collected off the southern and western coasts of South Korea and sequenced mitochondrial genomes to assess relationships within the genus Acanthochitona. Morphological observations — including rounded dorsal spicules, differences in the radula, and geometric differences in shell plates — together with genetic comparisons supported the designation of a distinct species. What scientists report: - The new species is named Acanthochitona feroxa and was identified among samples from South Korean coasts. - Researchers used mitochondrial genome sequencing and compared the results with four other Acanthochitona species to establish genetic distinctness. - Microscopy showed the species has rounded dorsal spicules rather than the pointed spicules seen in related specimens, and its radula and shell plates differ in form. - The genus Acanthochitona is characterized by tufts of bristles at the shell margins; A. feroxa has a brownish-greenish shell and distinguishing tufts. - The study was reported by Hyang Kim and Ui Wook Hang in the journal Marine Life Science & Technology. Summary: The report adds Acanthochitona feroxa to the documented diversity of chitons and supplies complete mitochondrial genomes for five species in the genus. The authors present the genetic data as foundational for further molecular studies and note the likelihood that additional, morphologically similar chiton species remain to be discovered.