The Mola Rock Crab, also known as *Cancer mola* or the Pacific rock crab, is a robust, reddish-brown crustacean native to the rocky coastal waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean. Renowned for its sweet, tender meat, this species is particularly sought after by commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting Mola Rock Crab include the United States (especially California), Mexico, and Peru, where rocky shorelines and nutrient-rich upwellings provide ideal habitats. In these countries, the crab is caught using baited traps and by hand, with the catch supporting both local markets and export demand. Sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized to ensure the long-term viability of Mola Rock Crab populations, as overfishing and habitat degradation pose ongoing challenges to the industry.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chile | 3,740 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.