Pink Abalone
NamePink Abalone
Scientific NameHaliotis corrugata
Common NamePink Abalone
FamilyHaliotidae
GenusHaliotis
Speciescorrugata
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, specifically along the coast of California (USA) from Point Conception southwards, and Baja California (Mexico).
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)150
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive feature is the strongly corrugated or wavy exterior shell surface. It has 3 to 5 open respiratory pores (tremata) along the left margin, which are raised and tubular. The shell is relatively thick and heavy.
Raritycommon
Author CitationWood, 1828
Description
The Pink Abalone is a large marine gastropod mollusk known for its distinctive, highly corrugated shell. Its exterior displays a mottled pattern of greenish-blue, reddish-brown, and orange hues, while the interior is brilliantly iridescent. This species is found in the rocky subtidal zones of the Eastern Pacific, primarily off the coasts of California and Baja California, where it grazes on kelp and other macroalgae. Historically abundant, its populations have faced severe declines due to overfishing and disease, leading to its current endangered status.
