Matthevia

Matthevia is a genus of Cambrian molluscs, perhaps related to the chitons.^[3] It consists of repeated monoplacophoran-like shells; according to one hypothesis, chitons arose when these tall shells began to overlap over the generations. The tall element of the shell was retained and forms the tips of modern chiton plates.^[3] There are distinct head, 'centre', and tail valves, which occur approximately in the ratio 1:5:1 — suggesting a seven-plated configuration.^[4]

Matthevia Temporal range: Late Cambrian–Lower Ordovician[1] [2] PreꞒ Ꞓ O S D C P T J K Pg N
Plates of Matthevia. Coin: 19 mm diameter
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Mollusca
Class:	Polyplacophora
Order:	†Paleoloricata
Family:	†Mattheviidae
Genus:	†Matthevia Walcott, 1885

Matthevia was first described by Charles D. Walcott in 1885.^[5]

See also

• Mattheva