Abalone Sea ShellsFamily: Haliotidae. 70 living species. Nicknamed the sea ears, the Abalones flattened, oval shape with iridescent interior can reach up to one foot in length. The animal uses the small holes for exhaling water. The many types of Abalone shells are found on rocks near the shores of all warm waters with the exception of the western Atlantic Ocean. The thick muscle, or foot, of the animal is edible and sold as a delicacy in many countries. Most of the abalone meat is exported to Asia. Interesting Facts: The Paua Shell or Rainbow Abalone of New Zealand is primarily used in jewelry making as well as inlays on furniture and guitars. |