Top shells, belonging to the family Trochidae, are marine gastropod mollusks prized for their attractive, spiraled shells and edible flesh. These mollusks inhabit rocky shorelines and coral reefs in tropical and subtropical regions, making them a valuable resource for both local consumption and international trade, particularly in the jewelry and decorative shell markets. The leading countries in top shell fishing include the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and several Pacific Island nations such as Fiji and Vanuatu. In these countries, top shell harvesting is often conducted by small-scale fishers using hand collection or simple tools, and the industry plays an important role in coastal livelihoods. However, overfishing and habitat degradation have led to declines in some populations, prompting the implementation of management measures such as size limits, closed seasons, and marine protected areas to ensure the sustainability of top shell fisheries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Egypt | 18 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.