Top West African Geryon Fishing Countries

The West African geryon, commonly known as the red deep-sea crab (Chaceon maritae), is a valuable crustacean species inhabiting the deep waters of the eastern Atlantic, particularly along the continental slopes off West Africa. This species is prized for its sweet, firm meat and is primarily targeted by deep-sea trawl and trap fisheries. The top West African countries involved in the commercial harvest of geryon crabs are Namibia, Angola, and Mauritania, with Namibia leading the industry due to its well-managed and sustainable fisheries sector. These countries export significant quantities of red crabs to international markets, particularly Europe and Asia, where demand for high-quality seafood is strong. The geryon fishery provides important economic benefits and employment opportunities in these coastal nations, but also requires careful management to prevent overfishing and ensure the long-term sustainability of deep-sea ecosystems.

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