staircase abalone
Namestaircase abalone
Scientific NameHaliotis scalaris
Common Namestaircase abalone
FamilyHaliotidae
GenusHaliotis
Speciesscalaris
Geographic DistributionSouthern Australia
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)60
Identifying FeaturesDistinctly elevated and spiraled spire resembling a staircase; a series of open respiratory pores (tremata) along the shell margin; rough, corrugated exterior surface with prominent growth lines.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Leach, 1814)
Description
A univalve marine gastropod shell, characterized by its ear-like shape, a series of respiratory pores, and a distinctly elevated, spiraled spire resembling a staircase. The exterior is rough with prominent growth lines and a somewhat corrugated texture. The color is typically reddish-brown to orange, often with lighter patches.
