Abstract

The growth of juveniles of the queen conch S. gigas that are greater than 5 cm in length in culture systems submerged in the sea results in a considerable saving both in energy and costs, such that the aquaculture of this species can be considered to be an activity that is technically viable. However, there are many varied potential problems that need to be considered when one places juvenile conch within confined systems in the marine environment. In this work we will discuss the main problems that can affect the culture of conch in the marine environment as well as the way in which these problems were confronted in a joint effort with a Fisheries Production Cooperative during a one year cycle of culture. The transfer of this technology to the social sector requires a training program for the fishermen about the general aspects of the biology of this species, the handling of the culture systems and the care of the organisms. Among the main problems that will be mentioned, the most important are the effect of predators, the supply of complementary nourishment to the culture systems, the presentation of the food in such a manner that it is more available and easily eaten by the conch, the health of the conch, the maintenance and handling of the culture systems, the social problems associated with group organization and the safeguarding of the organisms and culture systems in the event of weather-related phenomena such as northerly winds and hurricanes.

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