Top Brazilian Menhaden Fishing Countries

The Brazilian menhaden (*Brevoortia aurea*) is a small, schooling, oily fish found along the Atlantic coast of South America, particularly off Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. Known for its ecological importance as a forage fish and its commercial value for fishmeal and oil production, the Brazilian menhaden supports a significant regional fishery. The main countries harvesting this species are Brazil, which leads in landings, followed by Uruguay and Argentina. These nations operate industrial purse seine fleets targeting menhaden primarily for reduction into animal feed and fish oil, with Brazil’s southeast and southern coastal states serving as the industry’s hub. The fishery is vital to local economies, but concerns about overfishing and ecosystem impacts have prompted calls for improved management and monitoring across the region.

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