Top Lesser Weever Fishing Countries

The lesser weever (Echiichthys vipera) is a small, venomous marine fish found predominantly in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, often inhabiting sandy or muddy seabeds in shallow coastal waters. Recognized for its sharp dorsal fin spines that can inflict painful stings, the lesser weever is not a primary target for commercial fisheries due to its modest size and venomous nature. However, it is occasionally caught as bycatch in trawl and seine fisheries. The countries most associated with harvesting lesser weever include the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Portugal, where the species is sometimes sold in local markets, especially in southern Europe. In these regions, the lesser weever may be consumed fried or used in fish stews, but its economic importance remains minor compared to more popular commercial species. The fishing industry in these countries manages the species as part of broader demersal fish catches, with little targeted effort specifically for lesser weever.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.