Conches

Conches are large marine gastropod mollusks commonly referred to as true conches. They belong primarily to the family Strombidae, a group of tropical and subtropical snails found in seas around the world. The best-known species is the queen conch, Lobatus gigas (formerly Strombus gigas), noted for its large, heavy shell and a glossy pink interior.

Distribution and habitat: True conches occur in warm waters of the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Indo-Pacific regions. They inhabit shallow coastal areas, often on sandy bottoms or seagrass beds near coral reefs, where they graze on algae and detritus. Some species occupy deeper or more protected habitats, but all rely on clear, productive environments.

Biology: Conches are slow-moving grazers with a thick spiral shell that grows as the animal matures. They have a muscular foot and a specialized operculum. Reproduction is typically sexual, with eggs released into the water and developing free-swimming larvae (veligers) before settling as juveniles. Growth to large sizes can take several years, and adults may live for many years in suitable conditions.

Human use and conservation: The meat of the queen conch is a traditional food in Caribbean cuisines; shells are valued in ornamentation, jewelry, and as wind instruments (conch horns). Overharvesting and habitat degradation have caused declines in several populations. Many countries regulate harvests, and the queen conch is listed on CITES Appendix II to control international trade. Ongoing management and habitat protection are important for sustaining remaining populations.