To address the methodological shortcomings in the surveying of queen conch, a novel towed video method (TVM) was developed and compared with a conventional survey method (i.e. belt transect [BT] using scuba divers) in a series of calibration transects in two different habitats (i.e. high complexity (HC) and low complexity (LC)) (chapter 3). In both habitats, adult live queen conch had similar counts with both methods. Adult dead conch were not mistaken for live conch and the results validate the use of TVM as a reliable sampling tool to estimate densities of live adult conch in both HC and LC habitats throughout the species’ depth range.
For review see: H.P. Wagner, in Basteria, vol. 52, nr. 4-6 (1988); p. 126; Ted Bear, in Bull. Soc. Int. Conchyl, vol. 10, nr. 4 (1988); p. 19,J.A.B., in Vita Marina, zeebiologische dokumentatie (sept.-okt. 1989); Richard L. Goldberg, in American Conchologist, vol. 17, nr. 3 (dec. 1989); p. 16; La Conchiglia, vol. 21, 246-249 (sept.-dec. 1989); p. 15; Phil Colman, in Australian Shell News, nr. 70 (may 1990); p. 4.
The overall objective of this 10-year Regional Queen Conch Fishery Management and Conservation Plan is to guide the implementation of a set of identified management measures that can be applied at the regional or sub-regional level for the sustainability of queen conch populations and for the maintenance of a healthy fishery and livelihood of the people involved in the fishery. The ecosystem approach forms the basis of this Regional Queen Conch Fishery Management and Conservation Plan, enhanci ng partnerships and collaboration throughout the Wider Caribbean region to improve the long-term governance of queen conch fisheries across the Caribbean. The Regional Queen Conch Fishery Management and Conservation Plan was formulated with the following specific objectives: 1. To improve the collection and integration of scientific data needed to determine the overall queen conch population status as the basis for the application of ecosystem-based management. 2. To harmonize measures aimed a t increasing the stability of the queen conch population and to implement best-management practices for a sustainable fishery. 3. To increase coordination and collaboration toward achieving better education and outreach, monitoring and research, co-management and strengthening, optimizing and harmonizing regional governance arrangements. 4. To adopt regional management measures, which incorporate the precautionary approach
Although agriculture and fisheries account for only 1.6% of the GDP of the Bahamas, they produce 3% of all jobs and are important for the diversification of the economy. The Government of the Bahamas supports agriculture through a combination of value chain development measures, research and extension services, infrastructure development, and border protection. Support to producers averaged 19.08% of gross farm receipts in 2012-2014, and a significant share of support (29%) was provided in the form of transfers to general services. At the same time, total transfers arising from agricultural policy reached only 0.28% of the national GDP. Reducing barriers to trade, reducing regulations and streamlining access to incentives for farmers, and improving information services will help increase the efficiency and competitiveness of the agricultural sector.
This richly illustrated book presents the diversity and natural history of sea snail groups. By integrating aspects of morphology, ecology, evolution and behaviour, it describes how each group copes with problems of defence, locomotion, nutrition, reproduction and embryonic development. First come general characteristics of the Mollusca, to which snails belong; and next, characteristics by which snails (Gastropoda) differ from other molluscs. Then a broad, panoramic view of all major sea snail groups, from the primitive to the more advanced, is presented, including both the more abundant and some remote ones of special interest. In detailing primitive sea snails, first limpets (Patellogastropoda) are described, followed by brush snails (Vetigastropoda: top-shells, turbans and allies) and nerites (Neritimorpha), a small group with remarkably high variation in shell colour and in habitats. In looking at advanced-snails (Caenogastropoda), it details the herbivorous grazers and filter-feeders and the many voracious predators, some which use venomous darts. The book also covers sea slugs (Opisthobranchia), which have shifted from mechanical to chemical defence; some are herbivores, some use their food to harness solar energy, others are predators that gain stinging cells and poisonous compounds from their food. In addition, readers will learn about aspects of sea snails in human culture, including use as sacred artefacts and objects of magic and money, as a source of the royal and sacred dyes of purple and blue and as holy ceremonial trumpets. The text, in which scientific terms are accompanied by parallel common ones, is accompanied by over 200 illustrations (mostly in colour). This comprehensive, insightful portrait of sea snails will appeal to marine biologists, zoology lecturers and students, biology teachers, field-school instructors, nature reserve wardens, amateur naturalists, as well as to lecturers and learners of human culture.
