Top Southwest Atlantic Butterfish Fishing Countries

The Southwest Atlantic butterfish (Stromateus brasiliensis) is a small, silvery, schooling fish found primarily along the coasts of South America, particularly from southern Brazil to northern Argentina. Known for its mild flavor and delicate texture, this species is an important component of regional fisheries. The primary countries harvesting Southwest Atlantic butterfish are Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, with Argentina leading in total catch due to its extensive fishing fleet and well-developed seafood industry. These countries utilize trawl and purse seine methods to target butterfish, often as part of mixed-species fisheries. The butterfish is valued both for domestic consumption and export, contributing to the livelihoods of coastal communities and the broader fishing economy in the region.

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