Top Southwest Atlantic Red Crab Fishing Countries

The Southwest Atlantic red crab (Chaceon notialis) is a deep-sea crab species found along the continental slope off South America, particularly between southern Brazil and northern Argentina. This large, reddish-brown crab inhabits depths of 200–1,200 meters and is prized for its sweet, delicate meat. The commercial fishery for Southwest Atlantic red crab began in the late 20th century and has grown steadily, with Argentina and Uruguay emerging as the top harvesting countries. Both nations operate specialized deep-sea trawlers and trap fisheries, supplying regional and international seafood markets. Argentina, in particular, leads production due to its extensive continental shelf and established fishing infrastructure, while Uruguay also maintains a significant presence. The fishery is managed with quotas and gear restrictions to ensure sustainability, as the species’ slow growth and deep-sea habitat make it vulnerable to overexploitation.

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