What visual cues on the seabed indicate the presence of gayam snails?

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The presence of gayam snails on the seabed is indicated by jets of silt rising to the surface.

Gayam snails are found buried approximately two inches beneath the seabed. Their location can be identified by observing small plumes or jets of silt that are expelled upwards, breaking the surface of the water. This visual cue signals the presence of the snails below.
Detection Method for Gayam Snails

Harvesters on Pulau Tuba look for these specific indicators to locate the gayam snails. Once a jet of silt is spotted, a scoop is used to collect the snails from the seabed. This method relies on keen observation of subtle seabed activity.
Habitat and Depth of Gayam Snails

These coastal snails inhabit the seabed, typically found buried at a shallow depth of about two inches. While they are located just beneath the surface, the harvesting process involves divers going down to the seabed to collect them, usually at depths of two to three metres. The activity is limited to shallower waters, with harvesting stopping if the depth reaches four metres.
Harvesting Conditions and Challenges

The harvesting of gayam snails is often conducted during low tide, especially during periods of weak sea currents known as "dead water." This timing allows harvesters to work more safely and efficiently. Despite these precautions, strong currents remain a risk, and harvesters use ropes attached to pieces of wood to anchor themselves and prevent being swept away.

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What visual cues on the seabed indicate the presence of gayam snails?

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