Risso's smooth-head (Alepocephalus rostratus) is a deep-sea fish species found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, known for its elongated body and smooth, scaleless head. This species inhabits depths ranging from 200 to over 2,000 meters, making it a target for deep-water trawl fisheries. The top countries engaged in harvesting Risso's smooth-head are Spain, France, Italy, and Portugal, due to their proximity to the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic deep-sea fishing grounds. These nations have developed specialized deep-sea fishing fleets capable of targeting species like Risso’s smooth-head, which are often caught as bycatch alongside other deep-sea fish such as black scabbardfish and grenadiers. While not a primary commercial target, the species is valued in local markets and contributes to the diversity of the deep-sea fishing industry in southern Europe.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.