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Haliotis iris

Mollusks

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Haliotis iris, known as the blackfoot paua or rainbow abalone, is a species of edible marine gastropod mollusk in the abalone family, endemic to shallow coastal waters around New Zealand. It is widely consumed as a delicacy, and its iridescent, nacreous shell is prized for jewellery, decor and handicrafts, with the species holding deep cultural significance to both Maori and Pakeha as an emblem of New Zealand identity.

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