Density and reproduction of the Queen Conch Eustrombus gigas (Mesogastropoda: Strombidae) at Cabo Cruz, Desembarco del Granma National Park, Cuba

A study at Cabo Cruz, Desembarco del Granma National Park, Cuba, reveals that the queen conch (Eustrombus gigas) population exhibits seasonal variations in density and reproduction. The highest density (468.5 ind./ha) was observed during cold fronts, while the lowest (268.5 ind./ha) occurred in the dry season. Laguna area showed the highest density (520.4 ind./ha), whereas Farito had the lowest (290.9 ind./ha). Reproductive activity, totaling 158 events, was most frequent during the rainy season (36%), with mating and egg-laying influenced by temperature and photoperiod. The population appears self-sufficient for recruitment year-round, suggesting sustainable exploitation is possible if managed through functional zoning, fishing area rotation, and a closed season. Laguna should be protected as a reproduction zone.

Cala, Y. R., Navarrete, A. D. J., Ocaña, F. A., & Oliva Rivera, J. (2013). Density and reproduction of the Queen Conch Eustrombus gigas (Mesogastropoda: Strombidae) at Cabo Cruz, Desembarco del Granma National Park, Cuba. Revista de Biología Tropical, 61(2). https://doi.org/10.15517/rbt.v61i2.11165