Abalone snail

Abalone are marine gastropods with a flattened, ear-shaped shell pierced by a row of respiratory holes, and a large muscular foot that grips rock with real force. They graze algae at night and spend the day pressed flat against rock or glass. They are effective and unusual-looking animals, and there is one thing to settle before buying: the genus Haliotis contains both tropical and cool-water species, and not all of them belong in a warm reef tank.

Aquarium care

• Size varies considerably by species, so ask our staff what has actually come in.
• A herbivore that grazes film, diatom and coralline algae from hard surfaces.
• Mostly nocturnal, so much of the grazing happens after lights out.
• Needs a mature tank with an established algae supply.
• Sensitive to copper-based medication and to changes in salinity and temperature.
• Drip acclimate slowly and place it directly onto rock rather than sand.

They suit established reef and fish-only tanks with peaceful stock and stable rockwork. Confirm which species is in stock and whether it is a tropical form before you commit, because temperature tolerance is the difference between an animal that thrives and one that quietly fails.

Stock rotates with each shipment, and livestock is available for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. More in the saltwater collection.