The Galapagos shark (*Carcharhinus galapagensis*) is a large, robust requiem shark found primarily around oceanic islands in the Pacific, including the Galapagos, but also in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Characterized by its broad, round snout and grey coloration, this species is a top predator in its ecosystem. While the Galapagos shark is not a primary target of large-scale commercial fisheries, it is sometimes caught as bycatch in tuna and other pelagic fisheries, particularly by countries with significant Pacific fishing fleets such as Ecuador, Japan, and Taiwan. Ecuador, which governs the Galapagos Islands, has implemented strict protections within the Galapagos Marine Reserve, but illegal fishing and bycatch remain concerns. Other countries with Pacific territories or distant-water fleets, such as Spain and China, may also encounter Galapagos sharks as bycatch. The international trade in shark fins and meat, especially in Asian markets, poses additional threats. Conservation efforts focus on reducing bycatch and enforcing marine protected areas to safeguard this vulnerable species.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.