The Spiny File Shell (Limaria villosa), a bivalve mollusk known for its distinctive spiny shell and delicate, sweet flesh, is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and parts of the Indian Ocean. This species is often harvested for local consumption and, to a lesser extent, for export, particularly in Japan where it is considered a delicacy and sometimes used in sushi and sashimi dishes. The fishing industry for Spiny File Shells is generally small-scale and artisanal, with divers or small boats collecting them from rocky reefs and seagrass beds. Japan leads in both the harvest and culinary use of this species, followed by Indonesia and the Philippines, where it is also valued in local markets. Sustainable management is crucial, as overharvesting and habitat degradation can threaten local populations.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.