Top North Atlantic Rockweed Fishing Countries

Rockweed, primarily Ascophyllum nodosum, is not a fish but a brown seaweed abundant along the rocky intertidal zones of the North Atlantic coast. It plays a crucial ecological role as habitat and food source for marine life, and is also harvested for use in fertilizers, animal feed, and alginate production. The top North Atlantic rockweed harvesting countries are Canada—especially the provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick—and Norway, with Iceland and Ireland also contributing significantly. In these countries, rockweed is collected both manually and mechanically, with strict management practices in place to ensure sustainability and protect coastal ecosystems. The rockweed industry supports local economies and provides raw materials for agriculture, food, and cosmetics industries worldwide.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.