Abstract

The Mexican State of Campeche contributes with up to 80% of the fisheries production of marine snails in Mexico. Eighteen marine gastropod species compose this multi-specific, unregulated, artisanal fishery. Five of the most important species (Strombus costatus, Busycon contrarium, Turbinella angulata, Triplofusus giganteus and Strombus pugilis) present signs of over-exploitation. Most of the attention and research efforts in the past were focused on the protection of the Queen Conch S. gigas, but other strombid species are being proposed as alternative species for aquaculture production. From april 2006, monthly samples were taking to characterize S. pugilis habitat in Seybaplaya, Campeche, Mexico. Fighting conchs were mostly found on sandy bottoms associated to shell rubble and Thalassia sp. and Syringodium sp. grass flats. Average temperature in the area was 27°C and 31 ppt salinity. Predators observed feeding on S. pugilis during diving were octopuses and hermit crabs. Mature, reproducing aggregations and egg masses were observed in april 2006 only. Population attributes, the reproductive cycle, Gonadal-Somatic Index and Condition Index are presented

PDF Preview