Density and Structure of a Queen ConchStrombus gigas(Mollusca: Strombidae) Population at Desembarco del Granma National Park, Cabo Cruz, Cuba.

A queen conch population at Desembarco del Granma National Park, Cuba, exhibits density-dependent stunting, with high densities (up to 1767 ind.ha-1) leading to smaller-than-expected sizes. The study found that while 73% of conchs had fully formed lips, they measured less than the minimum fishing size (200 mm SL), suggesting a 'dwarf' population. Research across three zones and climatic periods revealed aggregated distributions and seasonal density variations, with the highest densities during the dry season. These findings highlight the need for revised management plans to ensure sustainable use of this protected area's conch resources.

Cala, Y. R., Jesús-Navarrete, A. d., Ocaña, F. A., & Oliva-Rivera, J. J. (2013). Density and Structure of a Queen ConchStrombus gigas(Mollusca: Strombidae) Population at Desembarco del Granma National Park, Cabo Cruz, Cuba. Caribbean Journal of Science, 47(2-3), 242–250. https://doi.org/10.18475/cjos.v47i3.a12