Abalones primarily inhabit at undersea reefs. Its growth is affected by the water temperature, and it is said to take 7 to 8 years for an abalone to reach maturity in Hokkaido or other areas in the north. Although they swim around using their cilium when they are small, they fall off once they find a place to settle. Abalones usually feed on diatoms and algae, but farmed abalones tend to grow green shells as they do not eat diatoms. Although they are often times eaten raw in sushi, boiled abalones can also be a good pick for sushi.
Its well-known nutrient is taurine, which is also included in energy drinks, as they help physical recovery. They also include leucine which helps toning the muscles, arginine which has been focused as dieting supplements. Abalones are said to be the magic potion for eternal life which the magi Xufu brought to the first Qin Emperor, and its shells are still popular as herbal medicine.