Concholepas concholepas

Concholepas concholepas

Concholepas concholepas
Concholepas concholepas
Scientific classification
Kingdom
Phylum
Class
Order
Family
Genus	Concholepas
Species	concholepas
Binomial name	Concholepas concholepas
Binomial authority
Synonyms	Concholepas peruviana (Lamarck, 1818)

Concholepas concholepas, commonly known as the Chilean abalone or loco, is a species of large sea snail native to the coasts of Chile and Peru. It belongs to the family Muricidae and is the only species in the genus Concholepas.

Description

The Concholepas concholepas has a large, thick shell with a rough surface. The shell can reach up to 20 centimeters in length and is usually colored in shades of brown or green. The body of the snail is soft and fleshy, with a muscular foot used for locomotion.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is found along the Pacific coast of South America, from central Chile to northern Peru. It inhabits rocky intertidal zones and shallow coastal waters, where it can be found clinging to rocks or hiding in crevices.

Ecology and Behavior

Concholepas concholepas is a carnivorous predator, feeding on a variety of marine organisms such as mussels, barnacles, and other small invertebrates. It uses its strong foot to pry open shells and consume the soft tissues inside.

This species is also known for its unique reproductive behavior. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite, meaning that individuals start their lives as males and later transition into females. This reproductive strategy allows for increased genetic diversity and ensures successful reproduction.

Conservation

Due to overfishing and habitat destruction, the population of Concholepas concholepas has declined in recent years. In Chile, it is considered a vulnerable species and is protected by fishing regulations. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect the habitats where this species occurs.