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Life Cycle of the Conch
Conch (pronounced ‘konk’) are a fast growing species of marine snail. They grow from a tiny larva into a snail weighing approximately ¼ lb (0.2 kg) in their first year, and they reach about 4½ lb (2 kg) as adults. This growth is fueled by a diet of algae.
A conch develops into an adult after about 4 years, and as it matures the mantle (body) of the snail pushes on the growing shell, making the opening flare out. This allows the mature snail to move along with lagoon floor the shell opening flat against the bottom. The conch’s rapid growth slows after the snail matures.
Conch move into deeper water as they mature, but start the life cycle again by returning to the shallows to lay their eggs.
Catarci, C. (2004). Caribbean queen conch (Strombus gigas). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Retrieved 8 August 2008 from http://www.fao.org/DOCREP/006/Y5261E/y5261e07.htm
Rhines, C. (2002). Strombus gigas. Animal Diversity Web. Retrieved 8 August 2008 from http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Strombus_gigas.html
Wikipedia. (2008, July 23). Conch. Wikipedia. Retrieved 8 August 2008 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strombus
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