Abstract

The Conch Heritage Network (CHN) was established in 2001 and is a leading organization for the exchange and dissemination of queen conch information on biology, fisheries, culture, research and education. The CHN has outreach tools available for educational and public use. They include a video, brochure, poster, educational modules, and an informative website. The Conch Heritage Network also developed “Conch in the Classroom” lesson plans for middle and high school teachers that cover the history, geography, biology, management, and aquaculture of the queen conch. The activities included in each lesson teach a relevant scientific concept using the queen conch as the example specie. For example, the students will learn about the importance of ocean currents for larval dispersal and the relationship of sea grass density and habitat quality for restocking. Students will also be able to participate in a virtual queen conch dissection. Each lesson lists the appropriate national and Florida state science standards that are met, enabling teachers to easily incorporate the lessons into their curriculum. Several teachers in Florida are using the “Conch in the Classroom” lesson plans and activities. All of these lessons are available on the website (www.savetheconch.org) in downloadable form.

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