The tuberculate cockle (Acanthocardia tuberculata) is a bivalve mollusk found primarily in the sandy and muddy substrates of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic coasts of Europe and North Africa. Recognized by its robust, rounded shell adorned with prominent radial ribs and tubercles, this cockle is a valued seafood delicacy. The leading countries involved in the commercial harvesting of tuberculate cockle include Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal, where they are collected both by hand and with mechanical dredges, particularly in estuarine and coastal areas. In these countries, the cockle fishery supports local economies and traditional cuisine, with strict regulations in place to ensure sustainable harvesting and protect the species from overexploitation. The tuberculate cockle industry is an important component of the broader shellfish sector in southern Europe, contributing to both domestic consumption and export markets.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.