In Bimini, there is a large problem of overfishing Conchs; more specifically, the Queen Conch. The Queen Conch is known to be a fine delicase of the Bahamas. With the rise of tourism, the rate of Conchs that are being killed and eaten are increasing exponentially. These gastropods were once very plentiful throughout the Bamahas but now are much harder to find.
The rise in tourists is increasing and with them, the harvest of Conchs. On the beach shores, there are many empty shells that were once inhabited but are now vacant. Many of these shells are used by smaller fish that use them for protection as juveniles until they are strong enough to live on their own. Many of these conchs also end up going home with tourists. To many tourists, these Queen Conch shells have become symbols for the Bahama Islands. Yet, hundreds of Conchs used to live in these shells but were killed because of the demand for their shells and themselves. This is a growing problem in the Bahamas and it must be dealt with before the once symbol of the Bahamas becomes rare or possibly extinct.
One way to help correct this problem is by being aware of what you are buying and what effect it has on others. Each purchase of a Conch or a Conch shell shows the producer that there is a demand for them so they in-turn go out and harvest more Conchs to bring and sell. As consumers our money dictates what the producer will sell. We are asking you as our audience to tell us your input on this growing problem that is occurring in the Bahamas. What else can be done to help correct this issue?
This is interesting issue that is occuring in the Bahamas (thanks for sharing). I remeber being in the bahamas and every tourist shop you could buy a conch shell. I also remember many of the corner food places selling conch fritters.
I know you mentioned a solution to this issue could be making others aware of the problem, but do you have any suggestions for alternative ways to remember your vacation?
I am guilty of the conch exploitation and I had the ability to influence the five other travelors in my group. The only way is word of mouth.
There needs to be an alternative because it is a profitable business for the natves.
People can easily take pictures or movies and can even spend a little more money to purchase an underwater camera. You can also buy souvenirs that were not wild caught animals like a T-shirt or necklace.
Another cute idea for a souvenir is a small bottle of sand. My brother takes a bottle from a local beverage company and fills it with sand from the beach that he's at. Sand is a pretty renewable resource, and now he has a collection of all different types of sand from all over the world!