Top Tuberculate Abalone Fishing Countries

The tuberculate abalone (Haliotis tuberculata), also known as the European abalone or ormer, is a marine gastropod mollusk prized for its delicately flavored meat and iridescent shell. Characterized by its oval, ear-shaped shell with distinctive tubercles or bumps, this species inhabits rocky coastal waters of the eastern Atlantic, from the British Isles to the Mediterranean and North Africa. The top countries harvesting tuberculate abalone are France, Spain, and the Channel Islands (notably Guernsey and Jersey), where ormering is a traditional and culturally significant activity. France leads in both wild capture and aquaculture production, particularly in Brittany. Strict regulations, including closed seasons and size limits, are enforced to protect wild stocks, as overfishing and habitat loss have historically threatened the species. In recent years, abalone aquaculture has expanded, especially in France and Spain, to meet culinary demand and support conservation efforts.

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