The Mediterranean bigeye rockling (*Gaidropsarus mediterraneus*) is a slender, elongated fish found in rocky and sandy bottoms throughout the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the eastern Atlantic. Recognized by its three dorsal fins and large eyes, this species is typically caught as bycatch in trawl and bottom longline fisheries rather than being a primary target. The leading Mediterranean countries involved in the harvest of bigeye rockling include Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Spain, where small-scale coastal fisheries are most active. While not a major commercial species, the bigeye rockling is valued locally for its delicate flavor and is often sold fresh in regional markets. The fishing industry for this species is generally artisanal, contributing modestly to local economies and relying on traditional fishing methods that have been practiced for generations along the Mediterranean coasts.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.