Japanese Abaloneクロアワビ

Species Data

Classification

Archaeogastropoda / Haliotidae Source

Size

Oval shell about 5–20 cm in length and 3–17 cm in width

Lifespan

Said to be up to about 30 years

Diet

Herbivore Eats brown algae such as arame, wakame, and kelp

Activity

Nocturnal; hides in dark places such as rock crevices and caves during the day

Distribution

Found along wave-exposed rocky coasts of Japan, from the Boso Peninsula to Kyushu on the Pacific side and from southern Hokkaido to Kyushu on the Sea of Japan side, including the Izu Islands. Source

Sources

ja.wikipedia.org www.ifarc.metro.tokyo.lg.jp

Did You Know?

• It is a slow-growing species, taking roughly three to four years to reach a shell length of about 10 cm. Source
• Prized as a premium food ingredient served as sashimi, in sake-steamed dishes, or grilled as steak, it is also a frequent target of illegal poaching. Source
• One of its old names, "ogai" (honorable shell), reflects its traditional use as an offering to the Imperial Household and Ise Grand Shrine. Source

Verified individual animals and facilities will be added as official information becomes available.

FAQ

How fast does this abalone grow?

It grows slowly, taking about three to four years to reach a shell length of roughly 10 cm. Source

What does it eat?

It feeds mainly at night on brown algae such as kelp and wakame, staying hidden in rock crevices during the day. Source

How long can it live?

Individuals can live for up to about 30 years. Source

How many operating facilities are registered here?

Operating facilities registered on this site: Japan 0 Source

Books & gear

• Japanese Abalone book
• binoculars