The Peruvian Donax (Donax peruvianus), commonly known as the "surf clam," is a small bivalve mollusk native to the sandy beaches of the Pacific coast of South America, particularly from northern Peru to central Chile. This species is highly valued for its tender meat and is a staple in local cuisines, often used in ceviche and other seafood dishes. The primary countries engaged in the commercial harvesting of Peruvian Donax are Peru and Chile, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries play a significant role in the local economy. These fisheries are typically community-based, with hand-gathering methods employed to collect clams from the intertidal zone. Over the years, increasing demand and overexploitation have led to concerns about sustainability, prompting both countries to implement regulations and management strategies to protect the species and ensure the long-term viability of the fishery.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Peru | 134 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.