The Tanganyika lates (Lates angustifrons) is a large predatory fish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, known for its elongated body and significant role in the lake’s ecosystem. This species is highly valued both as a food source and for commercial fishing, contributing substantially to the local economies. The top countries involved in harvesting the Tanganyika lates are the four nations bordering Lake Tanganyika: Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Zambia. Among these, Tanzania and the DRC are the leading contributors, with well-established fishing industries that supply both local markets and, to a lesser extent, regional trade. The fishing of Tanganyika lates supports thousands of livelihoods, but the industry faces challenges such as overfishing, habitat degradation, and the need for effective cross-border management to ensure the species’ sustainability.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burundi | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.