MOLLUSCAN SHELLFISH

Abalone

Did you know that abalone is a highly prized delicacy and aphrodisiac in the Far East? It is rich, flavourful, and among the world's most expensive seafood.

Abalone are a type of single-shelled (gastropod) herbivorous marine mollusc. There are approximately 55 different species of abalone throughout the world. Their body is large and fleshy, with a broad, muscular foot that is used to attach itself to reefs or rocks using suction. Abalone prefer rocky reefs exposed to wave action and are found from the shore out into the sea to depths of 30 metres.

The shells of abalone species are rough, flat and ear-shaped, which protects them from wave action. Their shells are also smooth and shiny on the inside to protect the soft flesh of the abalone from potential damage. Rows of small holes run along the edge of their shells help to distinguish abalone species from other marine snails. Abalone expel water that have passed through their gills via these holes. As abalone grow in size, these holes progressively close-up, with usually only the last four or five holes remaining open when they reach full-size.

The majority of abalone species are found in cold, nutrient rich waters off the coasts of New Zealand, South Africa, North America, Japan and Australia. The Abalone Fishery is one of Victoria's most valuable commercial fisheries.