Top Cape Fathead Fishing Countries

The Cape fathead (Psychrolutes macrocephalus) is a deep-sea fish species found primarily off the coasts of southern Africa, particularly near the continental slopes around South Africa and Namibia. Characterized by its gelatinous body and large head, this species is adapted to life in cold, high-pressure environments at depths ranging from 500 to 1,200 meters. The Cape fathead is not a major target for commercial fisheries due to its unappealing texture and low market demand; however, it is occasionally caught as bycatch in deep-sea trawl fisheries targeting more valuable species such as hake and grenadier. South Africa and Namibia are the primary countries where the Cape fathead is harvested, albeit incidentally, as part of their well-established deep-sea fishing industries. These nations have implemented management measures to monitor deep-sea bycatch and ensure the sustainability of their marine resources, including the Cape fathead.

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