Top Argentine Angelshark Fishing Countries

The Argentine angelshark (*Squatina argentina*) is a bottom-dwelling cartilaginous fish native to the southwestern Atlantic, particularly off the coasts of Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. Recognized for its flattened body and broad pectoral fins, this species inhabits continental shelf waters and is highly susceptible to overfishing due to its slow reproductive rate. The primary countries involved in the commercial harvest of the Argentine angelshark are Argentina and Uruguay, where it is often caught as bycatch in trawl fisheries targeting hake and other demersal species. While Brazil also records some catches, Argentina leads the industry, with angelsharks processed for both domestic consumption and export, primarily as fresh or frozen fillets. Overexploitation and habitat degradation have led to significant population declines, prompting concerns about the sustainability of the fishery and the need for improved management and conservation measures.

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