"Prized Sea Snail Not at Risk of Extinction, Federal Officials Say"

"The National Marine Fisheries Services has decided not to grant federal protection to the pinto abalone, a prized six-inch sea snail whose population has severely declined in Northern California.

The federal agency’s decision is in response to separate petitions submitted last year by a pair of conservation groups which requested that the the sea snail be listed under the Endangered Species Act.

The pinto abalone is considered a treasure on the West Coast.

The sea snail’s mottled red and green mother-of-pearl shell is used for decorative purposes while its large muscular foot is a culinary delicacy."
 
Ruben Vives reports for the Los Angeles Times December 27, 2014.