Our real problem which is a thousand times worse than collecting shells
is the RED TIDE.  The waters of the West coast of Florida has been
devastated several times by the red tide and a few years ago it was
unbelievable according to the divers and fishing boat captains whom I
have talked to.  Grouper and snapper down to 100 ft. were killed.  Deer
cowries were lying all over the bottom around the reefs off of Tampa
Bay.  The fish can go to deeper water, but the shells have to stay put.
We still haven't recovered, but are somewhat better, until the next red
tide comes along, and it will.  The only good thing that happens when
the red tide comes, it kills most of the tiny organisms that drill into
the shells.  If a red tide is mild the larger shells for a couple of
years are worm free. I have seen at least 10 red tides over the past 50
years, and they are not pretty. I think we are polluting the ocean. We
dump so much trash into the Gulf and the Oceans. We are the cause of
this problem. Just my opinion of course.

Bob

Robert Lipe Specimens
www.theshellstore.com
348 Corey Ave
St. Pete Beach, Fl 33706


-----Original Message-----
From: Conchologists List [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of
marlo
Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2007 7:16 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [CONCH-L] Thoughts on shell collecting


The issue I raised was not collect or not to collect.  Most of you are
looking at this from extremes.  I only brought up the issue of limiting
collecting to certain purposes to avoid wiping out populations in
diminishing habitats and assure the continuing existence of shell
populations in these diminishing locales.  There are many contributors,
of which specimen collecting may be but a tiny part.  But, the reality
is that development will continue and shoreline habitat is being
diminished.  Over collecting from diminishing habitats by those seeking
food, large quantities of shells for craft, trade or sale, or any other
purpose can and has wiped out shell populations.  And, where, as in the
Florida Keys, Sanibel, and other areas, restrictions have been imposed,
many shell populations are returning despite the continuing development.

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