The Southern pink shrimp (*Farfantepenaeus notialis*) is a commercially valuable crustacean found along the Atlantic coasts of the Americas and West Africa, inhabiting shallow coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms. Characterized by its pinkish hue and medium size, this species supports significant fisheries, particularly in countries bordering the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and the West African coastline. The top Southern pink shrimp fishing countries include Mexico, Venezuela, Brazil, and Nigeria, each with well-established shrimping industries that contribute substantially to local economies through both domestic consumption and export markets. These nations employ a combination of artisanal and industrial fishing methods, with trawlers being the primary gear used to harvest shrimp. Sustainable management and regulation are increasingly important in these regions to address overfishing and bycatch concerns, ensuring the long-term viability of the Southern pink shrimp fishery.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Nigeria | 17,156 |
2 | Senegal | 2,710 |
3 | Gambia | 2,014 |
4 | Spain | 1,806 |
5 | Gabon | 40 |
6 | Guinea-Bissau | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.