Species at Risk

Northern Abalone

What is the Northern Abalone?

It is illegal to harvest the Northern Abalone in British-Columbia but poaching continues to be an issue since this species has a high commercial value around the world.

The Northern Abalone is a marine snail with a flat, oval-shaped shell, mottled reddish or greenish, with areas of white or blue. It is often camouflaged by algae that grows on its shell. It is the smallest abalone on the Pacific coast, measuring no longer than 16.5 cm.

Where are the Northern Abalone found?

The Northern Abalone is found further north than any other abalone - living throughout the north-eastern Pacific Ocean, from California all the way up to Alaska. It is the only abalone commonly found in British Columbia, including the water of the proposed national marine conservation area adjacent to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. Adult abalone are typically found within 10 meters of the water surface. This is where they feed on algae, including kelp, their favourite food.

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site
© Parks Canada / C. Cheadle/ 10.105.07.19 (59) /2003