The humped rockcod (also known as the Antarctic rockcod, *Gobionotothen gibberifrons*) is a demersal fish species native to the cold waters of the Southern Ocean, particularly around sub-Antarctic islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. This species is characterized by its robust body and distinctive humped back, and it typically inhabits depths ranging from 100 to 400 meters. The humped rockcod has historically been targeted by commercial fisheries for its firm, white flesh. The principal countries involved in harvesting this species have been Russia and Ukraine (formerly the Soviet Union), along with Poland and Chile, particularly during the late 20th century when large-scale trawling operations were conducted in Antarctic waters. However, due to concerns over overfishing and the vulnerability of Antarctic fish stocks, strict international regulations now limit catches, and the current fishing industry for humped rockcod is much reduced, with most countries adhering to quotas set by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Norway | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.