eConch
In June 2024, in partnership with FAU’s Center for Online and Continuing Education, we launched a free online course aimed at expanding training and knowledge-sharing for anyone interested in learning about growing queen conch for conservation and restoration. The 7-module training course is easy to follow and can be completed at the user's own pace. The modules include: Introduction to Conch Aquaculture, Microalgae Culture, Collecting and Hatching Egg Masses, Larval Rearing, Metamorphosis, Juvenile Culture, and Restoration Tips.
Course Preview
These video tutorials were filmed at the Naguabo Aquaculture Center in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, and are only part of the in-depth course modules offered by our online learning product, eConch. Click here to enroll.
1: Tour of the naguabo queen conch hatchery*, Puerto Rico
Aquaculturists demonstrate proper techniques for caring for queen conch veligers during the larval stage. Topics covered include larval tank water changes, cleaning procedures, and daily veliger observation and data collection.
4: Taking Care of Your Veligers
Aquaculturists demonstrate proper techniques for caring for queen conch veligers during the larval stage. Topics covered include larval tank water changes, cleaning procedures, and daily veliger observation and data collection.
2: The Role of Microalgae in Raising Queen Conch
An overview of microalgae culture for the purpose of feeding larval queen conch veligers is provided. Topics covered include media preparation, microalgae transfers and scaling up, cell counts and feeding calculations, and how to swirl the microalgae.
5: Understanding the Bacteria on Your Eggs
USDA ARS microbiologist Julio Garcia demonstrates how to assess the composition of bacteria present on queen conch egg masses. Samples from the egg mass are transferred to two types of media. This technique can be helpful for understanding water quality and troubleshooting in your hatchery.
3: Collecting and Incubating the Eggs for a Queen Conch Hatchery
How to handle and incubate queen conch eggs in a hatchery, from field collection to hatching, is outlined here. Topics covered include collecting egg masses, processing egg masses, understanding egg development, and observing the hatching process.
The Naguabo Aquaculture Center is a partnership between the FAU Queen Conch Lab, Conservación ConCiencia, and the Naguabo Fishing Association. The center is supported by Saltonstall-Kennedy NOAA Fisheries and USDA ARS grants.
