Spain has introduced new restrictions to protect endangered conch shells as they are now classified as vulnerable.
The collection and commercialisation of these shells, once a popular beach souvenir, are now strictly prohibited.
UK tourists visiting Spanish coasts have been issued a five-word warning: “Please don’t take me home.”
Until recently, conch shells were a common sight in beachside souvenir shops, cherished for their ability to produce a soothing marine sound when held to the ear.
However, the once-abundant species is now at risk of extinction.
According to Serafín González, president of the Galician Society of History, the conch shell populations have been in sharp decline for years, prompting their vulnerable classification.
Rogelio Santos, a sailor, recalls a time when these shells were so plentiful that they were collected by the sackful and sold for as little as 50 cents to one euro per kilo. However, this overexploitation has led to their current endangered status.
Despite the new regulations, illegal sales continue in Galician markets, a practice that has drawn condemnation from local fishermen.
In a video plea, Santos, giving a voice to the endangered shells, pleas to “return me to the sea as there are very few of us left.”
The ongoing exploitation of conch shells poses broader ecological risks.
Marine biologist and communicator Charlie Sarria warns that removing conch shells from their natural habitat could disrupt the marine ecosystem, leading to an overpopulation of sea urchins.
“If we remove this link from the trophic chain, we could have an overprotection of sea urchins; it’s important to maintain them,” he said.