Donkey Ear Abalone (Haliotis asinina)

The Donkey Ear Abalone, named for its elongated, ear-shaped shell, is a striking and unique addition to marine aquariums. Known for its iridescent shell with green, blue, and brown markings, this abalone not only adds beauty but also provides essential algae control. It’s an efficient grazer, keeping algae growth in check as it moves along rocks and substrate. Due to its sensitivity to changes in water quality, the Ass's Ear Abalone is best suited for stable, well-established tanks.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; needs plenty of rockwork and substrate for grazing.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on various algae types, including green and film algae. Supplemental feedings of nori or algae wafers may be necessary if natural algae sources are low.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Ass’s Ear Abalone is non-aggressive and coexists well with a variety of tankmates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; requires a mature tank with stable water conditions and an adequate algae supply. Sensitive to rapid changes in water quality.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates and helps maintain algae levels, making it a beneficial addition to reef tanks.

Special Feature - Algae Control and Iridescent Shell
The Ass’s Ear Abalone is highly efficient at controlling algae growth, naturally helping to keep tank surfaces clean. Its vibrant, iridescent shell adds a unique aesthetic to the aquarium, reflecting hues of blue, green, and brown as it moves across the rockwork.

Compatibility
This abalone is peaceful and compatible with most tankmates, including fish and other peaceful invertebrates. However, it requires stable, well-maintained water conditions and plenty of grazing surfaces, so it’s best suited for established tanks with consistent parameters.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Ass’s Ear Abalone has a beautifully iridescent shell with shades of green, blue, and brown, giving it a distinctive appearance in the aquarium. Its colorful shell adds visual interest while providing valuable algae control​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly in shallow coastal reefs and rocky areas, the Ass’s Ear Abalone is commonly found in algae-rich zones where it can graze on rocks and corals for food​.