SFCN Queen Conch Data Package (2021 - 2024) Version 1

The queen conch (Aliger gigas) is a large marine gastropod that supports an economically and culturally important fishery in the Caribbean. Widespread population declines driven largely by overharvesting have led to the implementation of management measures across much of the species’ range. Because successful reproduction in A. gigas is density dependent, accurate information on distribution and abundance is critical for effective management, sustainability, and restoration planning. The South Florida/Caribbean Network does not currently have a dedicated queen conch monitoring protocol. However, conch observations were collected opportunistically as part of lobster and seagrass monitoring efforts conducted in network parks between 2021 and 2024. The lobster survey sample frame focuses on hardbottom habitats, whereas the seagrass survey sample frame focuses on soft bottom habitats. This data release compiles those observations, providing information on adult and juvenile conch occurrence and density across multiple park units. These data provide an important baseline for assessing current population conditions and identifying potential areas of concern or interest. The dataset may support future research, inform management decisions, and help guide the development of targeted, long-term monitoring programs for queen conch within the National Park System.

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