The starspotted smooth-hound (Mustelus manazo) is a small to medium-sized species of houndshark found in the coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, particularly around China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Recognized by its slender body and distinctive white spots along its greyish back, this shark is valued both as a food source and for its fins. The top countries engaged in starspotted smooth-hound fishing are China and Japan, where it is commonly caught by trawl and gillnet fisheries, often as part of multi-species catches. In these countries, the species supports local fisheries and is sold fresh or processed, contributing to regional seafood markets. Taiwan and South Korea also participate in the harvest, though to a lesser extent. Overfishing and habitat degradation have raised concerns about the sustainability of starspotted smooth-hound populations, prompting some regional management measures to regulate catch and protect the species.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.