Haliotis cracherodii

Haliotis cracherodii, commonly known as the Black Abalone, is a species of large edible sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Haliotidae, the abalones. This species is native to the Pacific Ocean coast of North America, specifically from Oregon to Baja California, Mexico.

Description

The Black Abalone is a large sea snail that can reach a size of up to 20 cm (8 in) in length. Its shell is oval and highly arched, with a dark black or blue-black coloration. The interior of the shell is iridescent and has a row of respiratory pores along the outer edge.

Habitat and Distribution

Haliotis cracherodii is found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of rocky shores, typically in areas with heavy surf. It is most commonly found in the lower intertidal zone, where it feeds on various types of seaweed, particularly giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera).

Conservation Status

The Black Abalone has been listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to a significant population decline caused by overfishing and disease, specifically withering syndrome, a bacterial infection that causes the abalone's foot to shrink.

Culinary Use

Historically, Black Abalone was a significant food source for Native American tribes along the Pacific coast. Today, due to its endangered status, commercial harvesting is prohibited in many areas.

See Also

• Abalone
• Endangered species
• Marine conservation

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