Top African Lungfishes Fishing Countries

The African lungfish (Protopterus spp.) is a unique freshwater species native to various river systems, lakes, and swamps across sub-Saharan Africa. Known for its ability to breathe air and survive in oxygen-poor or drought-prone environments by estivating in mud, the African lungfish is both ecologically fascinating and economically important. The primary countries engaged in the capture and trade of African lungfish include Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, and Uganda. In these nations, lungfish are harvested mainly from the wild using traditional fishing methods such as nets, traps, and hand collection during the dry season when water bodies recede. The fish is valued as a source of protein and is sold fresh, smoked, or dried in local markets, contributing to food security and livelihoods, particularly in rural communities. While the fishing industry for lungfish remains largely artisanal, increasing demand and habitat changes have raised concerns about overexploitation and sustainability in some regions.

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