Green ormer

The green ormer (Haliotis tuberculata) is a northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean species of sea snail, a coastal marine gastropod mollusc in the family Haliotidae, the abalone or ormer snails.

[2] The flesh of the green ormer is prized as a delicacy, and this has led to a decline in its population in some areas.

This flattened, oval shell is an ear-shaped spiral with a mottled outer surface.

At the bottom margin of the shell, there is a curving row of five to seven slightly raised respiratory apertures, through which the mantle extends with short, exhalant siphons.

Any breach of these laws is a criminal offence which can lead to a fine of up to £5,000 or six months in prison.

Drawing of a live specimen of Haliotis tuberculata ; right side view: d, foot; i, tentacular process of the mantle, passing through the shell-foramina
A shell of Haliotis tuberculata
A Green ormer in captivity.