Fragile codium (Codium fragile), commonly known as "dead man's fingers," is a green macroalga rather than a true fish, but it is harvested from marine environments for culinary and industrial uses. Native to the Pacific Ocean, Codium fragile has spread worldwide, often considered invasive in many regions. The primary countries engaged in the harvesting of Codium fragile include Japan, South Korea, and China, where it is valued as a food ingredient in soups and salads, as well as for its use in fertilizers and cosmetics. In these countries, the codium fishing industry is relatively small compared to finfish or shellfish sectors but remains important for coastal communities. Sustainable harvesting practices are increasingly emphasized to prevent overexploitation and to manage the ecological impact of this species, especially in areas where it threatens native biodiversity.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Republic of Korea | 100 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.