Staircase Abalone

Haliotis scalaris

Haliotis scalaris is a species of sea snail with a shell that typically ranges from 60 mm to 100 mm in size. The shell has a distinctive rounded-oval shape, characterized by a prominent spiral rib on each side of its row of 5 to 6 open perforations. Its surface features elevated radiating lamellae around the spire, and its color is usually a mixture of reddish and variegated olive or green tones. The inner surface of the shell is silvery and iridescent, with features that correspond to the outer surface's elevations, making it identifiable among other abalones. This marine species is endemic to Australia, found from South West Western Australia to Victoria, including Tasmania. It inhabits benthic environments, typically at depths shallower than 40 meters, with most occurrences recorded at depths less than 10 meters. The staircase abalone feeds primarily on algae, grazing on the available plant life in its habitat. Reproduction in Haliotis scalaris involves spawning, although specific details about its breeding behavior are not extensively documented. Encountering this species while diving can be intriguing, as divers may observe it clinging to rocky substrates or moving slowly across the seafloor. The IUCN categorizes this species as Least Concern, indicating that it is not currently facing significant threats to its population.