Haliotis kamtschatkana
northern abalone
(Also: pinto abalone)

The northern abalone can be found along the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Baranof Island, Alaska, south to Point Conception, California.

The most densely populated areas of northern abalone have rocky substrates, moderate exposure, and moderate algal presence. Kelp forests are home to large numbers of northern abalone, but animals living in these habitats, on average, are smaller.

The northern abalone have are on average 10 to 13 cm when full grown. The outside of the shell appears corrugated, and the spiral is fairly high compared to other abalone. There are four to five holes, which have raised edges.

Northern abalone are slow moving, slow growing animals. Metabolic rates are influenced by temperatures. Grazing and reproduction occupy most of the life of an abalone. The dispersion of abalone populations tends to depend on food accessibility and habitat structure.

Northern abalones are strict vegetarians, as are all other abalones. The most common feeding technique, especially for juveniles, is grazing for coraline algae. As individuals grow, their preference shifts to the entrapment of drifting algae. Northern abalone also graze in California's kelp forests.

Northern abalone are a source of profit for commercial fisheries within their range. Also, their mere existence attracts divers, who hunt them recreationally and bring money to tourist industries and governmental licensing agencies. Abalone shells are commonly used for jewelery.

Northern abalone are sought after by commercial fisheries, Native Indian groups, and recreational divers. Northern abalone are protected in Canada by the Species at Risk Act (SARA).

Haliotis rufescens, or the red abalone, and the red sea urchin are two most serious competitors of northern abalone among algal grazers. The most lethal enemy to the northern abalone, besides human beings, is the sea otter, Enhydra lutris. Sea otters have made a recent comeback after near extinction. The popualation of H. kamtschatkana flourished while sea otters were rare. Scuba divers are not allowed to use suction or pointed devices while hunting the abalone.