The Rough Head Sea Catfish (*Arius rugiceps*) is a marine catfish species found primarily in the coastal and estuarine waters of the western Indian Ocean, particularly along the coasts of East Africa and South Asia. Characterized by its robust head and barbels, this species is valued for its firm, white flesh and is commonly caught by small-scale and artisanal fisheries. The top countries engaged in harvesting the Rough Head Sea Catfish include India, Bangladesh, and Tanzania, where it is an important component of local diets and livelihoods. In these regions, the fishing industry relies on traditional methods such as gillnets and handlines, with catches often sold fresh in local markets or processed for regional consumption. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fleets, the species contributes significantly to the subsistence and small-scale commercial fisheries in these coastal communities.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mauritania | 2,640 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.