"Top Helmets Shells Not Elsewhere Included" refers to a category of marine gastropod mollusks, particularly helmet shells from the family Cassidae, such as *Cassis cornuta* and related species. These large, ornate shells are prized both for their beauty and for use in cameo carving and jewelry, rather than for their meat. The primary fishing countries for helmet shells include the Philippines, Indonesia, and some Pacific Island nations, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries collect them by hand or with simple diving equipment. The industry is relatively niche, driven by demand from collectors and the decorative arts market, but overharvesting has led to local population declines and increased regulation in some regions to protect these striking mollusks from depletion.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Italy | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.