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queen conch
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queen conch

marine snail
Also known as: Strombus gigas
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Quick Summary

The queen conch is a large marine snail, specifically a type of conch. True conchs belong to the family Strombidae and are found in warm waters, feeding on plant matter. The queen conch (Strombus gigas) is found from Florida to Brazil and is known for its ornamental shell, which has a pink aperture that can reach 30 cm (12 inches) in length.1

Conch meat is a food source in Caribbean countries and is exported globally. However, overharvesting has severely depleted natural populations, leading to efforts in commercial farming. The shells are also valued by collectors. Other large conchs, such as the king conch (Strombus gigas), are also used in cameo cutting.12

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