Status of Horned Helmet Cassis Cornuta in Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, and Its Trade in Puerto Princesa City, Philippines

A nationwide survey is needed to fully document the status of the giant reef gastropod Cassis cornuta, also known as the horned helmet, and the extent of its trade. This study found that most sampled C. cornuta in Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP) were large, suggesting minimal exploitation at the site. Regression analyses indicated that shell dimensions are significant determinants of body weight, with growth rates declining as shell size increased. Despite being protected under Philippine law, shells of C. cornuta were openly displayed for sale in souvenir shops in Puerto Princesa City, highlighting a gap between legal protection and enforcement. The study emphasizes the need for further research on population dynamics, survival, and exploitation to inform more effective conservation measures for this vanishing species.

Dolorosa, R. G., Conales, S. F., & Bundo, N. A. (2013). Status of Horned Helmet Cassis Cornuta in Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, and Its Trade in Puerto Princesa City, Philippines. Atoll Research Bulletin, 595, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.5479/si.00775630.595