Abalones
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Active grazers which require a good growth of algae in their tank. Roger Steene
[edit] Overview
Abalones are related to limpets and are good, active grazers, with a radula (scraping mouthpart) that functions as a whisk broom, sweeping the substrate for food. They are very effective at removing diatoms, small algae, and detritus. Shells are oval to elongate, shaped like an ear, with small breathing holes for exhaling water.
Family: Haliotididae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
Maximum length: 20 cm (8 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 190 L (50 gal)
Lighting: Must be sufficient to support healthy algal growth.
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
These wholly herbivorous grazing animals need a tank with a good growth of various algae, diatoms.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Good reef aquarium animals. Harmless.
[edit] Special Care
Will not tolerate changes in salinity; abalones need full-strength saltwater. They acclimate very slowly to new water conditions—treat them accordingly.
[edit] Notes
The broad, flat foot adheres so strongly to the substrate that the shell will rip free of the body before it pulls free of the substrate. Some species are captive-bred.
| Common name | Abalones + |
| Family | Haliotididae + |
| Genus | Haliotis + |
| Image credit | RCS + |
| Lighting | Must be sufficient to support healthy algal growth. + |
| Maximum length | 8 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 50 gal + |
| Native range | Indo-Pacific + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Marine Invertebrates + |
| Specific name | spp. + |
| Text credit | RLS + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |