The smalleye hammerhead (Sphyrna tudes) is a relatively small species of hammerhead shark found primarily along the Atlantic coasts of northern South America, particularly in shallow, muddy waters. Recognizable by its distinctive, narrow hammer-shaped head and yellowish coloration, this species is targeted both by artisanal and commercial fisheries for its meat, fins, and liver oil. The top countries involved in smalleye hammerhead fishing are Venezuela, Brazil, and, to a lesser extent, Guyana and Suriname. Venezuela is the leading harvester, where the species is commonly caught in gillnets and landed in significant numbers, often as part of mixed shark catches. Brazil also reports notable landings, especially in the northern and northeastern coastal regions. Overfishing and bycatch have led to significant declines in smalleye hammerhead populations, prompting conservation concerns and calls for improved management in these key fishing nations.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.