The West African estuarine prawn, primarily the species *Penaeus notialis* (commonly known as the southern pink shrimp), is a highly valued crustacean found in the brackish estuaries and coastal waters along the West African coast. This species supports a significant fishing industry due to its demand in both local and international seafood markets. The top prawn fishing countries in West Africa include Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire, where artisanal and industrial fleets harvest these prawns using trawlers and traditional gear. Nigeria and Senegal, in particular, have well-established prawn fisheries, exporting a substantial portion of their catch to Europe and Asia. The industry provides vital employment and income for coastal communities, though it faces challenges such as overfishing, habitat degradation, and the need for sustainable management practices to ensure the long-term viability of prawn stocks in the region.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.