Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Mexico’s National Fisheries Commission (Conapesca) announced that the pink conch harvesting season in the Chinchorro Bank reserve opened today and will run through April 30, 2026.
The authorized fishing area extends from Punta Herrero in Felipe Carrillo Puerto to the Belize border in Othón P. Blanco. Fishermen from Pulticub, Río Indio, Mahahual, Xahuachol, Xcalak, and intermediate points can now capture and sell the pink conch within the three vertices of the Chinchorro Bank Biosphere Reserve.
The pink conch (Lobatus gigas) has historically been a significant fishery resource in Quintana Roo, with annual catches exceeding 300 tons, according to Conapesca records. Due to overexploitation, the species now faces strict fishing bans and regulations that limit commercial harvesting and promote conservation.
Poaching remains a threat to the species, but authorities and local fishermen report a noticeable decline in illegal fishing vessels in the area between 2024 and 2025.
“Poachers know we’re out there and that our boats can catch them. They know they risk being detained and handed over to authorities. It’s made them more cautious and has reduced illegal fishing in the area,” said Agustín Cáceres, a diver from Mahahual who specializes in harvesting the mollusk.
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