How to distinguish the heads of abalone

To distinguish the heads of abalone, it is mainly judged by observing the diameter of the abalone shell. Here are some ways to help you identify the heads of abalone:

Diameter measurement: Using a ruler or measuring tool, measure the diameter of the abalone shell in centimeters. The diameter of a shell is the longest distance from one side of the shell to the other.

Morphological characteristics: Observe the shape and appearance characteristics of abalone shells. Abalone with smaller heads usually have smaller and flatter shells, while abalone with larger heads have larger shells that may be more rounded or convex.

Shell Edge: Observe the shape of the abalone shell edge. Abalone with smaller heads may have thin or straight edges, while those with larger heads may have thicker or uneven edges.

Appearance Color: Although abalone shell color varies by species and environment, larger-headed abalone generally show more color variation and patterning on the shell.

Please note that these methods are only some common guidelines for identifying several heads, and specific judgments may vary depending on the species and individual differences of abalone. The most accurate way to determine abalone size is by actually measuring the diameter.

The sizes of abalone are usually indicated when they are sold, but you can also ask your fishmonger or merchant for more precise information.

The following is a general classification of abalone size:

8-head abalone: The abalone is about 3.5 cm to 4 cm in diameter, usually younger and smaller in size.

10 abalone: The abalone is about 4.5 cm to 5 cm in diameter, of medium size and has passed the primary growth stage.

12-head abalone: The abalone has a diameter of about 5.5 cm to 6 cm, is larger and has grown to maturity.

14-head abalone: The abalone is about 6.5 cm to 7 cm in diameter, larger and very mature.

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