The Longnose Anchovy (*Anchoa nasus*) is a small, slender schooling fish found primarily in the coastal and estuarine waters of the Western Atlantic, especially along the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and parts of the South American coastline. Known for its elongated snout and translucent body, this species plays a vital role in local food webs and is commonly used as bait in commercial fisheries. The top countries harvesting Longnose Anchovy include Mexico, Venezuela, and Brazil, where the fish is caught both for direct human consumption and as a key ingredient in fishmeal and animal feed industries. In these nations, the anchovy fishery supports local economies, particularly in coastal communities, and is often managed through seasonal regulations to ensure sustainability due to the species’ importance as forage for larger predatory fish.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 11 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.