Pāua

Pāua is the Māori name given to three species of large edible sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs which belong to the family Haliotidae, known in the United States and Australia as abalone, and in the United Kingdom as ormer shells.

Species

The three species of Pāua in New Zealand are:

• Haliotis iris or Rainbow Pāua, which is the most common variety.
• Haliotis australis or Yellow-foot Pāua.
• Haliotis virginea or Virgin Pāua.

Description

Pāua are known for their vibrant, colourful shells. They have a row of respiratory pores along the outer edge of the shell. The interior of the shell has a thick layer of nacre or mother-of-pearl, which makes it highly iridescent.

Habitat

Pāua inhabit coastal waters up to 10 meters deep and prefer rocky shorelines. They are found throughout New Zealand, but are more prevalent in cooler waters.

Diet

Pāua are herbivores, feeding on seaweed. They have a large foot which they use to cling to rocks and a strong radula to scrape off algae.

Cultural Significance

In Māori culture, Pāua are used both as a food source and in traditional artwork. The shells are used in jewellery and other decorative items.

Conservation

Due to overfishing, Pāua are now a protected species in New Zealand. There are strict regulations regarding their collection, including size limits and a prohibition on collecting Pāua without a permit.

See also

• Abalone
• Māori culture
• Haliotidae