The top mote sculpin (*Normanichthys crockeri*) is a small, bottom-dwelling marine fish found along the Pacific coasts of South America, particularly from northern Peru to central Chile. Recognized for its elongated body and mottled coloration, this species inhabits sandy and muddy substrates in shallow coastal waters. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fisheries, the top mote sculpin is occasionally caught as bycatch in artisanal and small-scale fisheries, especially in Chile and Peru, where coastal communities may utilize it for local consumption or bait. The fishing industry for this species is relatively minor compared to more commercially valuable fish, but Chile and Peru are the primary countries where the top mote sculpin is harvested, reflecting their rich coastal biodiversity and reliance on diverse marine resources.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chile | 4,446 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.