The blackspotted smooth hound (Mustelus punctulatus) is a species of houndshark found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, recognizable by its slender body, smooth skin, and characteristic black spots. This demersal shark is targeted both by commercial and artisanal fisheries for its meat, which is popular in local markets. The top countries harvesting blackspotted smooth hound include Italy, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, where it is caught mainly using trawl nets, longlines, and gillnets. In these regions, the species forms an important part of the small-scale fisheries sector, contributing to local economies and food security. However, overfishing and bycatch have raised concerns about population declines, prompting some countries to implement management measures to ensure the sustainability of blackspotted smooth hound stocks.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.