c. AD 1200 – 1500 (Trade and Economy): The “Caicos conch trade” was a specialized maritime industry where Lucayan populations harvested and processed vast quantities of Queen conch (Lobatus gigas) for export…

c. AD 1200 – 1500 (Trade and Economy): The “Caicos conch trade” was a specialized maritime industry where Lucayan populations harvested and processed vast quantities of Queen conch (Lobatus gigas) for export to the Greater Antilles. Research by E. Doran Jr. highlights that dried conch meat served as a durable source of protein for trade, while the shells provided raw material for tools. This economic link supported the growth of unique entrepôts like the MC-6 site, where local resources were exchanged for prestige items such as Chicoid pottery and manioc beer.