The Common Cerithe (Cerithium vulgatum) is a small marine gastropod mollusk found primarily in the shallow coastal waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. Recognizable by its elongated, turreted shell, this species inhabits sandy and muddy substrates, often in seagrass meadows. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fisheries, the Common Cerithe is harvested locally for use as bait, in artisanal fisheries, and occasionally for culinary purposes in some Mediterranean countries. The top countries involved in the collection and utilization of Common Cerithe include Italy, Spain, France, and Greece, where traditional fishing communities gather these mollusks by hand or with simple tools. The industry remains small-scale and regionally significant, supporting local economies and preserving cultural fishing practices.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | United States of America | 179 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.