The sperm whale (*Physeter macrocephalus*) is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed predator, known for its massive head and prominent spermaceti organ. Historically, sperm whales were highly sought after for their valuable spermaceti oil, used in lamps, lubricants, and candles, as well as for ambergris, a rare substance used in perfumery. During the 18th and 19th centuries, countries such as the United States (notably New England), the United Kingdom, Norway, and Japan dominated the global sperm whale fishery, with fleets venturing into all the world’s oceans. By the mid-20th century, the Soviet Union also became a major participant. Overexploitation led to dramatic declines in sperm whale populations, prompting international regulation. Today, commercial sperm whale hunting is banned under the International Whaling Commission (IWC), with only a few exceptions for aboriginal subsistence whaling. As a result, sperm whale populations are now protected, and no country currently engages in large-scale legal sperm whale fishing.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Panama | 2 |
| 2 | Spain | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.