Gigartina skottsbergii, commonly known as Skottsberg’s gigartina, is not a fish but a species of red seaweed found along the southern coasts of South America, particularly in Chile and Argentina. This seaweed is highly valued for its carrageenan content, a gelling agent widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Chile is the leading country in the harvesting and export of Gigartina skottsbergii, with a well-established industry that supplies both domestic and international markets. Argentina also contributes to the harvest, primarily from the Patagonian coastline. The sustainable management of this resource is crucial, as overharvesting can threaten local ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities dependent on this marine resource.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chile | 27,109 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.