Top Common Periwinkle Fishing Countries

The common periwinkle (Littorina littorea) is a small marine gastropod mollusk found predominantly along the rocky shores of the North Atlantic, especially in intertidal zones. Valued for its edible meat, the periwinkle is harvested both for local consumption and export. The top countries engaged in periwinkle fishing are the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, and Canada, particularly in regions bordering the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. In these countries, periwinkles are collected by hand or with simple tools during low tide, supporting coastal communities and traditional fisheries. The species is especially popular in European cuisine, often served as a delicacy in France and the British Isles. Sustainable harvesting practices are increasingly important to ensure the continued abundance of this resource, as overharvesting and habitat disturbance can threaten local populations.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.