Horned turban shell

Ishikawa Prefecture is among the top producers of horned turban shells in terms of total catch. They are harvested using two main methods: in the Wajima/ Hegurajima area they are collected by women shell-divers, and gill-net fishing is carried out throughout the prefecture. The latter method takes advantage of the species’ nocturnal behavior. Nets are set at the bottom of the sea in such a way that they catch the horns of the shells. Most of the shells are harvested using the former method. Because the divers collect them one by one with their hands, they sustain little damage. They are sold alive. The best way to eat them is to grill them alive and pour soy sauce onto them when they are cooked. It is also good to eat them raw as sashimi to enjoy their texture.