Top Carrot Squat Lobster Fishing Countries

The carrot squat lobster (*Pleuroncodes monodon*), also known as the red squat lobster or langostino, is a small, bright reddish-orange crustacean found primarily along the Pacific coasts of South America, especially off Chile and Peru. This species inhabits the continental shelf and slope, forming dense aggregations that make it an important target for commercial fisheries. Chile is by far the leading country in harvesting carrot squat lobster, with a well-established fishery that supplies both domestic and international markets, often processing the catch into frozen or canned products labeled as "langostino." Peru also has a significant fishery for this species, though on a smaller scale compared to Chile. The carrot squat lobster fishery is vital for local economies, providing employment and export revenue, and is managed through quotas and seasonal closures to ensure sustainability.

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