giant abalone
Namegiant abalone
Scientific NameHaliotis rufescens
Common NameGiant Abalone, Red Abalone, Giant Red Abalone
FamilyHaliotidae
GenusHaliotis
Speciesrufescens
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, primarily along the coast of California, USA, extending south to Baja California, Mexico, and north to Oregon.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Typically grows up to 200-300 mm (8-12 inches) in length, making it the largest abalone species in North America.
Identifying FeaturesCharacterized by its large size, oval and flattened shape, and a series of 3-4 (sometimes up to 5) prominent, open, tubular respiratory pores (tremata) along the left margin. The exterior surface is rough, with undulating growth lines and sometimes faint radial sculpture. The spire is low and inconspicuous.
Author CitationSwainson, 1822
Description
A large, heavy, and relatively flattened gastropod shell, commonly known as a giant abalone. The exterior is rough, with prominent concentric growth lines and a dull, brownish-green coloration, likely due to natural marine encrustations and weathering. Several raised, open respiratory pores are visible along the shell's margin. The overall shape is oval to ear-shaped, characteristic of the abalone family.
