Introduction

Abalone is one of the most prized sea delicacies worldwide. Farming of abalone began in the late 1950's and early 1960's in Japan and China. A very rapid development of abalone cultivation has taken place in the 1990s and it is now widespread in many countries including USA, Mexico, South Africa, Australia, Japan, China, Taiwan, Ireland, Iceland and others. The largest cultured abalone producer in the world is China with over 300 farms and a total production of approximately 3500 tons, mostly H. supertexta.

Worldwide, there are over 15 species of abalone which are farmed and commercially important. Species can live in water temperatures ranging from 2C to30C.

Abalone are cultured worldwide using many different culture methods. Many methods are discussed and pictured in several places on this website.

For further information choose from the subheadings under “Abalone Information” on the menu bar at left.