List of edible molluscs

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This is a partial list of edible molluscs. Molluscs are a large phylum of invertebrate animals, many of which have shells. Edible molluscs are harvested from saltwater, freshwater, and the land, and include numerous members of the classes Gastropoda (snails), Bivalvia (clams, scallops, oysters etc.), Cephalopoda (octopus and squid), and Polyplacophora (chitons).

Many species of molluscs are eaten worldwide, either cooked or raw. Some mollusc species are commercially exploited and shipped as part of the international trade in shellfish; other species are harvested, sold and consumed locally. Some species are collected and eaten locally but are rarely bought and sold. A few species of molluscs are not commonly eaten now, but were eaten in historical or prehistoric times.

The list is divided into marine and non-marine (terrestrial and freshwater) species, and within those divisions, the lists are primarily arranged taxonomically, so that related species are grouped together.

Marine species

Many sea animals with shells are eaten by people. These include snails, clams, oysters, octopus, and squid.

Gastropods (snails)

Some sea snails are eaten. This includes different kinds of abalone, limpets, winkles, conchs, murex, top shells, and whelks.

Bivalves (clams etc.)

Many types of clams and oysters are eaten. This includes mussels, pen shells, true oysters, cockles, scallops, venus clams, and razor clams.

Chitons (coat of mail shells)

Some chitons are also eaten.

Cephalopods (octopus, squid etc.)

Octopus and squid are eaten foods. Some cuttlefish and nautilus are also eaten.

Non-marine species

Freshwater and land molluscs that people eat include snails and clams from rivers, lakes, and even gardens.

Land snails like escargot, Cornu aspersum, Helix lucorum, Helix nucula, Helix pomatia, and the grove snail are popular foods. Freshwater clams such as Corbicula fluminea are also eaten in many places.