Pāua

Species of abalone endemic to New Zealand

Pāua is the Māori name given to three species of large edible sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs belonging to the family Haliotidae, known in English as abalone. These species are endemic to the coastal waters of New Zealand. The most common species is Haliotis iris, also known as the blackfoot pāua.

Description

Haliotis iris shell

Pāua are characterized by their distinctive, colorful shells, which are highly iridescent and display a range of colors from greens and blues to purples and pinks. The shell is oval-shaped and has a row of respiratory pores along one side. The interior of the shell is lined with nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, which is responsible for its vibrant colors.

The pāua's muscular foot is used to adhere to rocks and other hard surfaces in the intertidal and subtidal zones. The foot is also the edible part of the pāua, prized for its unique flavor and texture.

Habitat

Pāua are found along the rocky coastlines of New Zealand, from the low tide mark to depths of around 10 meters. They prefer areas with strong water movement, which provides a constant supply of food in the form of algae. Pāua are herbivorous, feeding primarily on seaweed.

Cultural Significance

Pāua shell bracelet

Pāua holds significant cultural value for the Māori people, who have traditionally harvested them for food and used their shells for decorative purposes. The iridescent shells are often used in jewelry, carvings, and inlays in traditional Māori art.

The harvesting of pāua is regulated to ensure sustainability, with restrictions on size, quantity, and methods of collection. Pāua can only be collected by free diving; the use of scuba gear is prohibited.

Commercial Use

Pāua is also commercially harvested and is a valuable export product for New Zealand. The meat is considered a delicacy and is exported to various countries, particularly in Asia. The shells are used in the production of jewelry and other decorative items.

Conservation

Due to their popularity and the pressures of overfishing, pāua populations are carefully managed. Quotas and size limits are enforced to ensure that the species remains sustainable. There are also efforts to combat illegal poaching, which poses a significant threat to pāua populations.

Related Pages

• Abalone
• Māori culture
• New Zealand cuisine

Abalone free form pearls