Limpets are marine gastropod mollusks known for their conical shells and strong attachment to rocky shorelines. Prized in various cuisines for their unique, chewy texture and briny flavor, limpets are primarily harvested in coastal regions where rocky intertidal zones are abundant. The top limpet fishing countries include Portugal, Spain (notably the Canary Islands), France, the United Kingdom, and several island nations such as Cape Verde and Madeira. In these countries, limpets are collected both for local consumption and, to a lesser extent, export. The limpet fishery is largely small-scale and artisanal, often involving hand-gathering or simple tools, and is subject to strict regulations in many regions to prevent overharvesting and ensure sustainability due to the species’ slow growth and vulnerability to exploitation.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.