Belize Conch Research

Posted January 26th, 2008 by oceanic
in
Date: 
01/05/2008

Queen Conch Survey / Snorkel Expedition

Cabanas


The Oceanic Society is working with Dr. John A. Cigliano a study to assess the current status of queen conch populations in Turneffe Atoll to provide recommendations for effective conservation strategies. Queen conch are important ecologically, culturally and economically to Belizeans.

Volunteers on this hands-on project will assist the researchers collecting data on the distribution and abundance, habitat use, and migration and recruitment patterns of queen conch in Turneffe Atoll. Working with researchers, we will snorkel among beautiful corals and colorful tropical fish, to survey for queen conchs. When conch are located, you will help capture and tag, age, and measure the juveniles and adults. And we will conduct plankton tows to assess the density and age structure of larval conch populations.

Volunteers will be trained in the use of equipment and sampling techniques. While we will be in the field for 4-6 hrs during the day, there will be free time to swim and snorkel and for a siesta. . The program is best suited for active individuals. Headquarters for this project are at the Blackbird Oceanic Society Field Station.accommodations are in beachfront cabanas offering double occupancy rooms with private baths.

This information will not only allow us to assess the overall health of the current conch population in Turneffe Atoll but also to determine whether this population is a distinct population.

Itinerary:

Day 1:
Belize City/Blackbird Caye.

Day 2:
Morning: methods training. Afternoon: conch survey.

Day 3-7:
Day: Daily conch surveys.

Day 8:
Blackbird Caye/Belize City.

Belize map

Click for large Interactive Map

 

Researcher: John Cigliano

2008 Date:

January 5-12, 2008

2008 Cost: $1,890

Maximum group size: 6

Detailed Trip Information

Information & Reservations

Please fill out an APPLICATION to sign-up for the Belize Conch Research expedition.

Send E-mail regarding this specific trip: Belize Conch Research

Trip Forum:
Talk with your trip leader and other participants.

(For expedition members only)