The Carabali shrimp, commonly referred to as the Caribbean white shrimp (Penaeus schmitti), is a commercially valuable species found in the warm coastal waters of the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic. Known for its mild flavor and firm texture, this shrimp is a staple in regional cuisines and a significant export commodity. The top Carabali shrimp fishing countries include Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico, where both artisanal and industrial fleets harvest the species from estuarine and nearshore habitats. These nations have developed robust shrimp fisheries, supported by favorable environmental conditions and established processing industries, making them leading contributors to the global supply of Carabali shrimp. Sustainable management practices and aquaculture initiatives are increasingly important in these countries to balance economic benefits with the preservation of shrimp populations and marine ecosystems.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 20 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.