Animal Profiles
Molluscs

Abalone

Haliotis

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Abalones are marine snails with broad muscular feet and flattened shells. This account describes the red abalone, a rocky-coast grazer whose shell has a row of breathing openings.

Red abalone (Haliotis rufescens), the representative described here.

Red abalone (Haliotis rufescens), the representative described here.

At a glance

Location
Haliotis rufescens is the representative used here. It inhabits the Pacific coast from southern Oregon towards Baja California, clinging to rocks in coastal waters. Depth of occurrence varies geographically.
Habitat
Coast
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Kelp and other algae supply food.

Classification

Common name
Abalone
Browse group
Molluscs
Scientific name or taxon
Haliotis

Three things to know

  • It is a marine snail.
  • Its shell has a row of openings.
  • Its muscular foot grips rock.

Habitat and range

Haliotis rufescens is the representative used here. It inhabits the Pacific coast from southern Oregon towards Baja California, clinging to rocks in coastal waters. Depth of occurrence varies geographically.

Appearance and adaptations

A thick oval shell covers the soft body. Several open holes run along one side of the shell, allowing water exchange and waste release. A large muscular foot provides firm attachment.

Diet and behaviour

Kelp and other algae supply food. The animal moves slowly across rock and can clamp tightly to its support when disturbed. It remains associated with a relatively limited area rather than migrating long distances.

Sources

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