The East Pacific black ghostshark (Hydrolagus melanophasma) is a deepwater cartilaginous fish belonging to the family Chimaeridae, noted for its dark coloration and ghostly appearance. This elusive species inhabits the deep continental slopes of the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from California to central Chile. The main countries involved in black ghostshark fishing are the United States (particularly off California), Mexico, and Chile, where the species is sometimes caught as bycatch in deep-sea trawl and longline fisheries targeting other demersal fishes and sharks. While not a primary target, the black ghostshark is occasionally retained for its meat and liver oil, with Chile having the most significant reported landings due to its active deep-sea fisheries. The overall catch is relatively minor compared to more commercially valuable species, but continued deep-sea fishing pressure raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of black ghostshark populations in the region.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 3 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.