The Giant Stargazer (*Kathetostoma giganteum*) is a large, bottom-dwelling predatory fish found primarily in the temperate waters of the southwestern Pacific Ocean, particularly around New Zealand and southern Australia. Known for its upward-facing eyes and camouflaged, burrowing behavior, the Giant Stargazer is valued both as a commercial and recreational catch due to its firm, white flesh. New Zealand stands out as the top country for harvesting Giant Stargazer, where it is commonly caught as bycatch in trawl fisheries targeting other demersal species. Australia also reports significant landings, especially in the southern states like Victoria and Tasmania. Both countries manage their stargazer fisheries through quotas and gear restrictions to ensure sustainability, with most of the catch destined for domestic consumption and some export markets.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Zealand | 2,739 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.