The Argentine goatfish (Mullus argentinae) is a small, bottom-dwelling marine fish known for its reddish coloration and distinctive chin barbels, which it uses to search for food along sandy and muddy seabeds. This species is primarily found in the southwestern Atlantic, particularly off the coasts of Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. As a commercially important species, the Argentine goatfish supports local fisheries, with Argentina being the leading harvester, followed by Uruguay and, to a lesser extent, Brazil. The fishing industry targeting this species typically employs trawl nets, and the catch is valued both for domestic consumption and regional markets. The sustainable management of Argentine goatfish stocks is crucial for the livelihoods of coastal communities in these countries, as well as for maintaining the ecological balance of their marine environments.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Argentina | 61 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.