Top Areolate Grouper Fishing Countries

The Areolate Grouper (Epinephelus areolatus), also known as the yellowspotted rockcod, is a medium-sized reef fish distinguished by its pale body covered in small, bright yellow to orange spots. Found throughout the Indo-West Pacific, this species is highly valued for its firm, white flesh and is a staple in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting areolate grouper include Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and India, where the fish is caught primarily through handlines, traps, and small-scale net fisheries. In these nations, areolate grouper supports local livelihoods and is a key export, especially to markets in East Asia, where live reef fish are in high demand. While wild stocks are under pressure from overfishing, some countries are also investing in aquaculture to supplement wild catch and sustain the lucrative grouper trade.

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