Strombus gigas is listed in Appendix II of CITES (and has been since
11/6/92).
It is designated as a species which is at risk.  The collection and
exploitation
is not prohibited by CITES but trade in the species is regulated.  Of course
collecting the species in Florida is prohibited.

http://www.wcmc.org.uk/CITES/eng/index.shtml

Bill F.

----- Original Message -----
From: Kay Lavalier <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, December 06, 1999 5:58 PM
Subject: Strombus gigas


> Andrew Vik
> [log in to unmask]
>
> If Strombus gigas is internationally protected by the CITES list, why
> can I purchase queen conch chowder or fritters in just about every
> seafood restaurant in Florida? Isn't the meat imported from the Bahamas
> where the species is very plentiful? As are all the Queen Conch shells
> that are sold in gift shops?
>
> Andrew V.