Abstract

Results of stock assessment on queen conch (S. gigas) in this region are presented. A monitoring survey to the eastern region of Doce Leguas was done in June 2005. This area was previously assessed during six years after year 1999. Results were within figures of 200-285 metric tons (living weight) annual quotas always captured. After that, the area was considered Jardines de la Reina Nacional Park or MPA. The objective of the present document is to observe at comercial scale the population abundance, the effects of fishing and the auto-renovation after six years. Also, the fishery management proposed for a sustainable exploitation. CITES scientific authorities rules and recommendations were followed everytime. Population abundance remains well as its recuperation, not in other caribbean regions. Morphometric variables are: Total length 19 cm; Mean living weight 1650 g; Adult lip thickness 18 mm; sex ratio F/M=1,3:1. MSY recommendation is an annual quota of 100 metric tons (living weight) sustainable after six years exploitation and based on the observed abundance. Closed season from May to September must be maintained every year because of the reproduction intensity during these months.

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