Ensis razor clams, often referred to as "razor shells," are elongated bivalve mollusks found in sandy coastal environments, prized for their delicate flavor and texture. The term "Not Elsewhere Included" (NEI) in fisheries statistics typically covers Ensis species not specifically identified by name, reflecting a range of closely related razor clams. Major fishing countries for Ensis razor clams NEI include China, the United Kingdom, Spain, and the Netherlands, where they are harvested both for domestic consumption and export, particularly to Asian markets. These countries employ a mix of traditional hand-gathering and mechanized dredging methods, with China leading global production due to its extensive coastal aquaculture systems. The industry is economically significant, supporting coastal communities and contributing to local seafood markets, though it also faces sustainability challenges related to habitat disturbance and overfishing, prompting some regions to implement stricter management and conservation measures.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 4 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.