Dogfishes and hounds, grouped under the order Squaliformes and family Triakidae, are small to medium-sized sharks commonly found in temperate and subtropical oceans worldwide. These species, such as the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and smooth-hounds (Mustelus spp.), are valued for their meat, fins, and liver oil. The leading fishing countries for dogfishes and hounds not elsewhere included are typically located in the North Atlantic and North Pacific regions, with the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Japan among the top harvesters. These fisheries often target dogfish for export markets, particularly in Europe, where the meat is popular under names like "rock salmon" or "saumonette." While these species have historically supported robust fisheries, concerns over overfishing and slow reproductive rates have led to stricter management measures and quota systems in many countries to ensure sustainable harvests.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | 42 |
2 | Channel Islands | 5 |
3 | Ireland | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.