Mollusca: Haliotis tuberculata

The Haliotis tuberculata, commonly known as the ormer or abalone, is a species of marine gastropod mollusk found in the waters of the Comunidad Valenciana and other parts of the Northeast Atlantic. In Spanish, it is often referred to as "oreja de mar" due to its ear-like shape.

This mollusk is renowned for its unique and beautiful shell, which is oval and slightly convex, featuring a series of respiratory holes along one side. The outer surface of the shell is rugged and can vary in color, while the inner surface is smooth and iridescent, showcasing a range of colors that include blues, greens, and pinks, which are highly prized for ornamental purposes.

• Habitat: Haliotis tuberculata is typically found in rocky coastal areas where it clings to submerged rocks and feeds on algae.
• Distribution: This species is distributed in the Northeast Atlantic, including the coasts of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
• Diet: The ormer primarily feeds on microalgae and seaweed, grazing on the surfaces of rocks where it resides.
• Significance: It has both ecological and economic importance. Its population is monitored due to its role in the marine ecosystem and because it is harvested for its nutritional and commercial value.

In the Comunidad Valenciana, the presence of Haliotis tuberculata contributes to the local biodiversity and represents a small but notable component of the region's marine life.