The Panama anchovy (Cetengraulis mysticetus) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found along the Pacific coasts of Central and South America, particularly abundant from the Gulf of California to northern Peru. This species is a vital component of regional marine ecosystems and serves as an important resource for commercial fisheries, primarily harvested for fishmeal, animal feed, and, to a lesser extent, human consumption. The leading countries involved in Panama anchovy fishing are Ecuador and Peru, which have well-developed industrial fleets and processing facilities dedicated to small pelagic species. Mexico and Colombia also participate in the fishery, albeit on a smaller scale. The anchovy fishery plays a significant role in the economies of these countries, supporting both local employment and export industries, while also facing challenges related to sustainable management and environmental variability.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.