Concholepas concholepas

Concholepas concholepas
Concholepas concholepas shell Concholepas concholepas shell
''Concholepas C. concholepas''
Scientific classification
Kingdom
Phylum	Mollusca
Class
Order
Family
Genus	'Concholepas'
Species	''C. concholepas''
Binomial name	'Concholepas concholepas'
Binomial authority	(Bruguière, 1789)
Synonyms

Concholepas concholepas, commonly known as the Chilean abalone or "loco", is a species of large edible sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails.

Description

Concholepas concholepas is characterized by its thick, heavy shell, which can reach up to 18 cm in length. The shell is typically oval in shape and has a rough, sculptured surface with a series of strong radial ribs. The coloration of the shell is generally a dull brown or gray, often encrusted with marine growths. The interior of the shell is smooth and white, with a large, muscular foot that is used for locomotion and attachment to rocks.

Distribution

This species is found along the Pacific coast of South America, from Peru to southern Chile. It inhabits rocky intertidal and subtidal zones, where it is often found clinging to rocks and other hard substrates.

Habitat

Concholepas concholepas prefers rocky shorelines and is commonly found in areas with strong wave action. It is adapted to survive in the harsh conditions of the intertidal zone, where it can withstand exposure to air during low tides and the force of crashing waves.

Ecology

Concholepas concholepas is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on bivalves and other mollusks. It uses its strong foot to pry open the shells of its prey and its radula to scrape out the soft tissues. This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem as a predator, helping to control the populations of its prey species.

Reproduction

The reproductive cycle of Concholepas concholepas involves external fertilization. During the breeding season, females release eggs into the water, which are then fertilized by sperm released by males. The eggs develop into free-swimming larvae, which eventually settle onto the substrate and metamorphose into juvenile snails.

Economic Importance

Concholepas concholepas is highly valued as a seafood delicacy in Chile and other parts of South America. It is harvested both commercially and recreationally, and its meat is considered a gourmet item. Due to its economic importance, there are regulations in place to manage its harvest and ensure sustainable populations.

Conservation

Overfishing and habitat destruction have led to concerns about the conservation status of Concholepas concholepas. Efforts are being made to monitor populations and implement management strategies to protect this species and its habitat.

See also

• Gastropoda
• Muricidae
• Marine biology