Green Ormer
NameGreen Ormer
Scientific NameHaliotis tuberculata
Common NameGreen Ormer, European Abalone
FamilyHaliotidae
GenusHaliotis
Speciestuberculata
Geographic DistributionEastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the Channel Islands south to Mauritania, including the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean Sea. The specimens in the image are from Calahonda, likely indicating a location in Spain.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)The specimens shown are 36.6 mm and 12.5 mm in length. Adults typically reach 60-80 mm, with a maximum recorded size of about 100 mm.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive flattened, ear-shaped shell with a series of 5 to 7 open, raised respiratory pores (tremata) along the left margin. The exterior is rough, often with concentric growth lines and radial sculpture, and typically camouflaged. The interior is highly iridescent and pearly.
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A marine gastropod, commonly known as the Green Ormer or European Abalone, characterized by its flattened, ear-shaped shell. The exterior is typically dull and camouflaged, while the interior boasts a vibrant, iridescent nacre. It features a distinctive row of open respiratory pores along its margin, used for respiration and waste expulsion.
