Trochus / Alileng Tulompo
Document Actions
Trochus / Alileng Tulompo
Trochus niloticus
Introduced Species Regulated Species
Trochus or top shell, is one of the larger shellfish that can be found on Guam's fringing reefs and reef flats. This popular delicacy can be found along reef flats at low tide.
Its Chamoru name, "alileng", has misled many residents into believing that the trochus is native to Guam. On the contrary, this rugged, spiralled, red and white shell is native to southwest Micronesia including Yap and Palau.
In the early 1950s a shipment of live alileng was brought to Guam from Saipan (where it was also introduced), in hopes of establishing the alileng as an important food source. It has now become widespread on our island and is common in most reef areas. Another kind of alileng, the "alileng pulan" or turban shell is native to Guam, but is not as common.
Typically, alileng live in areas where the water is clean and well circulated, often where there are big waves. They are found in overhangs, pits, or crevices which they often leave at night to feed. Alileng feed on filamentous algae which is the fuzzy growth on rocks and dead coral. Alileng are preyed upon by large crabs, octopuses, and certain large fishes including the tangison and rays. The large, white muscular foot of the alileng is a popular food for humans. The shell, when sanded down, makes a beautiful decorative piece or a mother of pearl button or jewelry.
Regulations allow year-round harvesting for home consumption provided the daily take is not over 50 pounds (22.7 kg) of shells (including the animal inside) per person per day. Of the 50 pounds, forty pounds (18.1 kg) must be three inches (7.6 cm) or larger at the base; the remaining ten pounds must measure two inches (5.1 cm) or greater. Under no circumstances may a harvester take alileng which measure below two inches.
The Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources urges everyone to exercise good judgment by taking only those alileng whose shells are three inches or larger. Commercial harvests have different and even stricter regulations and require a license from the Department of Agriculture. Commercial and non-commercial violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Guam Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 9/27/2005
