The caramote prawn (Penaeus kerathurus), also known as the striped prawn or Mediterranean prawn, is a highly prized crustacean found primarily in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. Characterized by its distinctive brownish stripes and robust size, the caramote prawn supports a valuable commercial fishery, particularly in southern Europe and North Africa. Italy is the leading harvester, with significant landings from the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian Seas, followed by Tunisia, Spain, and Greece, where traditional trawl and artisanal fishing methods are employed. These countries have developed specialized fisheries targeting caramote prawns, which are highly sought after in local and international seafood markets for their delicate flavor and firm texture. Sustainable management practices are increasingly important in these regions to ensure the long-term viability of caramote prawn stocks amid growing demand.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Tunisia | 4,150 |
2 | Italy | 1,168 |
3 | Libya | 525 |
4 | Greece | 363 |
5 | Spain | 135 |
6 | Albania | 61 |
7 | Türkiye | 60 |
8 | France | 3 |
9 | Slovenia | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.