The Top Sleek Lates (Lates microlepis) is a large, predatory freshwater fish native to the African Great Lakes, especially Lake Tanganyika. Characterized by its streamlined body and silvery coloration, the Top Sleek Lates is a prized catch for both commercial and artisanal fisheries due to its high-quality flesh. The primary countries harvesting this species are those bordering Lake Tanganyika: Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia. In these nations, the Top Sleek Lates supports local economies and provides a vital protein source for lakeside communities. However, overfishing and environmental pressures have raised concerns about the sustainability of its populations, prompting regional efforts to manage and conserve this important fishery resource.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burundi | 6,840 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.