Strombidae

Strombidae is a family of large marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Stromboidea, commonly known as the true conchs. The family includes several genera, such as Strombus, Lambis, Lobatus, and Laevistrombus, with many species distributed across tropical and subtropical seas worldwide.

Strombids inhabit shallow coastal environments, including sandy bottoms, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and mangrove-associated habitats. They are especially diverse in the Caribbean, western Atlantic, and Indo-Pacific regions, where they play roles in local shallow-water ecosystems as grazers and detritivores.

Shell morphology and behavior are distinctive. Members typically possess heavy, robust shells with a long siphonal canal. The outer lip may be thickened and, in some genera like Lambis, bear numerous finger-like projections. A hallmark feature is their large, muscular foot and a distinctive locomotion in which they can move by rapid, hopping-like movements, aided by the operculum.

Ecology and diet: Strombids are mainly herbivores or detritivores, grazing on algae, seagrasses, and detrital material. They are primarily found in shallow, sunlit waters and can be active at various times of day, depending on species and conditions.

Reproduction and development are typically sexual, with external fertilization in many species. Eggs hatch into free-swimming veliger larvae that undergo development before settling as juveniles, contributing to wide dispersal in some taxa.

Human uses and conservation: Strombidae shells are valued ornamentally, and several species are harvested for meat, notably the queen conch (Lobatus gigas). Overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change threaten many species. Some are protected or regulated under national laws and international trade agreements, including CITES listings for certain taxa.