Top Shagreen Ray Fishing Countries

The shagreen ray (Leucoraja fullonica), also known as the fuller's ray, is a demersal cartilaginous fish found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of Northern Europe. Characterized by its rough, sandpaper-like skin, this species inhabits sandy or muddy bottoms at depths ranging from 50 to 500 meters. The shagreen ray is primarily targeted as bycatch in mixed demersal trawl fisheries rather than as a direct target species. The top countries involved in shagreen ray fishing include the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, and Spain, where the species is caught mainly in the North Sea, Celtic Sea, and the Bay of Biscay. While not a major commercial species, its landings are monitored due to concerns about population declines from overfishing and habitat disturbance, leading to management measures in some regions to ensure sustainable stocks.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.