Top Splendid Alfonsino Fishing Countries

The Splendid Alfonsino (Beryx splendens) is a deep-sea fish recognized for its bright red coloration and high market value, particularly prized in Asian cuisine for its delicate, white flesh. This species inhabits continental slopes and seamounts at depths ranging from 200 to over 1,000 meters. The top countries engaged in the commercial harvest of Splendid Alfonsino are Japan, Portugal, Spain, and New Zealand. Japan leads the industry, both as a major consumer and harvester, operating specialized deep-sea trawlers and longliners. Portugal and Spain target alfonsino primarily in the Northeast Atlantic, especially around the Azores and Canary Islands, while New Zealand’s fisheries operate in the South Pacific. Due to its slow growth and late maturity, the Splendid Alfonsino is vulnerable to overfishing, prompting international management measures to ensure sustainable harvests.

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