The bearded rockling (*Ciliata mustela*) is a small, elongated marine fish found along the eastern Atlantic coasts, recognized by its three characteristic chin barbels. This species inhabits rocky shorelines and shallow coastal waters, making it accessible to both commercial and recreational fishers. The top three countries known for harvesting bearded rockling are the United Kingdom, Ireland, and France. In these countries, the fishing industry targets bearded rockling mainly as bycatch in small-scale coastal fisheries, particularly in trawl and net operations, rather than as a primary commercial species. While not a major economic driver, bearded rockling is valued locally for its delicate flesh and is sometimes used as bait for larger predatory fish. The sustainable management of coastal fisheries in these nations helps maintain stable populations of bearded rockling, ensuring their continued presence in local markets and traditional cuisine.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.