Circular Abalone
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Haliotis cyclobates |
| Common Name | Circular Abalone (also known as the Whirlygig Abalone or Round Ear Shell) |
| Distribution | Endemic to the temperate waters of southern Australia, primarily found throughout South Australia and stretching across to Western Australia. |
| Habitat | Sheltered coastal bays and gulfs, uniquely adapted to cling onto seagrass stems (Posidonia), razorfish shells, and small isolated rocks rather than massive reefs. |
| Depth Range | 1 to 15 metres. |
| Average Size | 5 to 6 centimetres. |
| Maximum Size | 8 centimetres |
| Commercial Status | Non-commercial. |
| Primary Production | Wild populations |
| Key Characteristics | This dwarf species is instantly identified by its highly distinct, circular, and heavily domed shell that mimics a spinning top. The exterior surface features coarse, wavy spiral cords, typically displaying an orange-brown or greenish-grey colouration. The shell edge contains 5 to 6 open respiratory pores which are noticeably elevated on small tubular projections. |
About Circular Abalone
The Circular Abalone (Haliotis cyclobates) is a highly specialised gastropod mollusc that breaks the traditional biological mould of the abalone family. Instead of anchoring to large, wave-swept rocky reefs, this small species thrives in calm, protected gulfs where it uses its circular foot to balance on vertical seagrass blades and small rubble. Completely bypassed by commercial fisheries due to its small size and negligible meat yield, its uniquely spherical shell is a prized find for beachcombers and marine specimen collectors along the southern Australian coastline.