Scientific name
Illex argentinus
Also known as
Illex squid, calamar argentino, pota argentina
Main origins
Argentina, Spain, Falkland Islands
Main season
January to June (variable)
Overview
About Argentine Shortfin Squid (Illex)
Illex argentinus is a short lived oceanic squid found over the Patagonian shelf and slope, caught mainly by jigging vessels using lights at night. The flesh is white and lean with a mild flavour and a firm, slightly chewy texture.
Argentina, the Falkland Islands and distant water fleets fishing in international waters account for most of the catch. Spain, centred on Vigo, imports and processes Illex into tubes, rings and breaded products for European markets, while whole round squid is also sold widely in Asia and as bait.
Key points
- Jigger caught, frozen at sea
- Whole round, tubes, rings
- Spain as processing hub
- Catches vary year to year
Origins
Where it comes from
Argentina
National jigger and trawl fleets fishing the Argentine EEZ, landing at Patagonian ports and Mar del Plata.
Spain
Vigo based importers process Illex into tubes, rings and ready to cook products.
Falkland Islands
Licensed fishery around the islands, worked mainly by Asian jigger fleets.
Available origins vary through the year. Contact us for current availability.
Specifications
Available formats
| Product forms | Whole round, tubes (skin on or skinless), rings, wings, tentacles |
| Sizes | Whole round by weight per piece: 100/200, 200/300, 300/400, 400/600, 600/up g |
| Freezing | Frozen at sea in blocks on jiggers; land frozen block or IQF for processed forms |
| Packing | Whole round in blocks of around 11 to 13 kg net; processed products in bags and cartons |
| Season | Argentine season opens in January or February and normally runs to mid year; closure depends on stock condition |
| Certifications | Catch and health certificates; not MSC certified |
Catches vary widely between years; the 2026 Argentine season was closed early on 22 April on scientific advice. Specifications are typical for the trade and vary by origin and supplier. We source to your exact requirements.
Interested in Argentine Shortfin Squid (Illex)?
Send us your specification, volumes and destination and we will come back to you with suitable offers.