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Semibalanus cariosus (Pallas, 1788)
Thatched Barnacle
Family: Archaeobalanidae
Introduction to the Barnacles of BC

Photograph

© Derek Holzapfel     (Photo ID #14912)

Map

E-Fauna BC Static Map

Distribution of Semibalanus cariosus in British Columbia in British Columbia

Species Information


Description

The size varies greatly up to 1¼ inches in diameter and 2½ inches in height. The normal shell is a steep-walled cone with numerous downward-pointing spines, giving it a "thatched" appearance. When crowded they take on a tubular form and may lack the spines. The base is membranous.

Colour

White in young or uncrowded individuals; otherwise dirty grey.

Distribution

Coasts of Western North America and Japan. At about the quarter-tide level, on rock.

Notes

On the British Columbia coast this is the only large barnacle with a membranous base. It is usually found on the rocks, and much crowded.

Status Information

Origin StatusProvincial StatusBC List
(Red Blue List)		COSEWIC
UnlistedUnlistedUnlistedUnlisted



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