Mixed Strain

A mixed strain Pacific abalone is Haliotis discus hannai produced from more than one hatchery, farm, or regional broodstock line. This abalone, also known in aquaculture as Japanese or Ezo abalone, has an ear-shaped shell that is often mottled green-brown outside with a nacreous interior. Mixed strains are common where farms combine lines for growth, survival, or broodstock diversity rather than maintaining a single documented family.

In culture, strain identity matters because Pacific abalone grow slowly and are sensitive to water quality, temperature, oxygen, and handling stress. They are raised on plates, baskets, or raceway systems and fed kelp, other macroalgae, or formulated diets. Hatcheries using mixed strains should track broodstock sources to manage inbreeding, disease risk, and any future selective breeding. Release into natural waters, where allowed, requires particular caution because farm genetics can affect wild populations.

Colors: Mottled Green-Brown