A Discussion of Horseshoe Crab Management in Five Countries: Taiwan, India, China, United States, and Mexico

Abstract

A panel of five international experts was convened during the International Symposium on the Science and Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs to compare and contrast horseshoe crab management in their countries. The panel members each responded to a series of questions prepared by a facilitator. All five speakers stated that habitat degradation and destruction were a major threat to the horseshoe crab population(s) in their country. Pressure for economic development often hindered efforts to preserve and protect coastal habitats. Public education was viewed as an important step toward the implementation of effective management actions. The urgent need for conservation was viewed to be a strong, motivating factor to strengthen international management efforts.