Queen Conch (Aliger gigas) – Complete Care Guide

General Information

The Queen Conch (Aliger gigas), also known as the Pink Conch, is a large marine gastropod mollusk that has become a symbol of tropical marine ecosystems. Known for its beautiful pink-lipped shell, the Queen Conch is a popular choice for marine aquarists who wish to add a touch of the Caribbean to their tanks. These mollusks are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal but also play a vital role in their natural habitats by grazing on algae and contributing to the health of seagrass beds.

Native to the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, the Queen Conch has been harvested for centuries for its meat and shell, making it a species of both ecological and cultural importance. However, overharvesting has led to population declines, and the species is now protected in many areas. Hobbyists should ensure that any Queen Conch they acquire is sustainably sourced.

Physically, the Queen Conch is easily recognized by its large, spiral-shaped shell, which can grow up to 30 cm in length. The shell's exterior is often covered in algae or other marine growths, while the interior boasts a striking pink hue. The animal itself has a soft body with a prominent foot, which it uses for locomotion, and long, stalked eyes that give it a unique and endearing appearance.

Care

Queen Conchs are relatively hardy and can adapt well to life in a marine aquarium, provided their specific needs are met. They require a sandy substrate, as they spend most of their time burrowing or grazing along the tank bottom. A mature tank with stable water parameters is essential for their health, as they are sensitive to fluctuations in water quality.

These mollusks are excellent algae grazers and can help keep the tank clean. However, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of algae control. They are best suited for larger tanks with ample space for them to roam and graze.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Queen Conchs feed primarily on algae, detritus, and seagrass. In captivity, they can be sustained on a diet of natural algae growth supplemented with algae wafers, spirulina, and other plant-based foods. Providing a varied diet helps ensure they receive all the nutrients they need.

Feed them sparingly, as they are efficient grazers and can often find enough food in a well-maintained tank. Monitor their activity to ensure they are not overgrazing or struggling to find food.

Behavior and Compatibility

Queen Conchs are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them excellent additions to community tanks. They are solitary by nature but can coexist with other peaceful tank inhabitants, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. Avoid housing them with aggressive species that may nip at their soft bodies or damage their shells.

These mollusks are active during the day and night, often seen grazing along the substrate. They are fascinating to watch as they use their muscular foot to move and their long proboscis to feed.

Reproduction

Breeding Queen Conchs in captivity is extremely challenging and rarely achieved. In the wild, they reproduce sexually, with females laying long egg masses that can contain hundreds of thousands of eggs. The larvae are planktonic and require specific conditions to develop, making captive breeding efforts complex and resource-intensive.

Habitat

The Queen Conch is native to the shallow, sandy seagrass beds and coral reefs of the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. They prefer warm, clear waters with plenty of algae and detritus to feed on. Replicating these conditions in an aquarium is key to their health and longevity.

Conservation Status

The Queen Conch is listed under Appendix II of CITES, meaning its trade is regulated to prevent overexploitation. Wild populations have declined due to overharvesting, habitat loss, and illegal fishing. Hobbyists should only purchase Queen Conchs from reputable sources that comply with sustainable harvesting practices and legal regulations.

Common name: Queen Conch