Haliotis fulgens

Haliotis fulgens is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Haliotidae, the abalones. This species is also commonly known as the Green Abalone due to its distinctive coloration.

Description

The Haliotis fulgens is characterized by its oval, slightly convex shell which can reach a size of up to 25 cm. The shell's exterior is a dull green color, while the interior is a vibrant iridescent green with occasional flashes of pink and blue. The shell has a series of respiratory pores along the outer edge, a characteristic feature of the abalone species.

Distribution and Habitat

The Haliotis fulgens is native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, specifically the coastal waters of California and Baja California. It inhabits rocky substrates in shallow waters, typically at depths of 6 to 15 meters.

Diet

The Haliotis fulgens feeds primarily on algae, including both red and brown algae species. It uses its radula, a specialized feeding organ, to scrape algae off rocks.

Conservation Status

The Haliotis fulgens is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to overfishing and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect and restore populations of this species.

See Also

• Haliotis
• Abalone
• Haliotidae

‎