The Mexican Four-Eyed Octopus (*Octopus maya*) is a unique cephalopod species native to the warm, shallow waters of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Recognized for the distinctive eye spots on its mantle, this octopus is highly valued for its tender flesh and is a staple in regional cuisine. The primary country harvesting the Mexican Four-Eyed Octopus is Mexico, particularly in the states of Yucatán and Campeche, where a well-established artisanal and commercial fishery operates under regulated quotas to ensure sustainability. While Mexico dominates the global catch, smaller quantities are occasionally landed by neighboring countries such as Cuba and Belize, but these are minor compared to Mexico’s production. The octopus fishery is a significant economic driver in the region, supporting thousands of local fishers and contributing to export markets, especially to Europe and the United States, where demand for this delicacy continues to grow.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 27,139 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.