The Asian redtail catfish (Hemibagrus wyckioides) is a large, powerful freshwater species native to Southeast Asia, easily recognized by its striking red tail and robust body. Thriving in major river systems such as the Mekong and Chao Phraya, this catfish is highly valued both as a food fish and a sportfish due to its size and fighting ability. The primary countries involved in harvesting the Asian redtail catfish are Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, where it is caught in the wild and increasingly farmed in aquaculture operations to meet growing demand. In these countries, the fish supports local economies through commercial fisheries, local markets, and export, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam, which are regional leaders in freshwater fish production. Overfishing and habitat changes, however, have put pressure on wild populations, prompting efforts to balance harvest with conservation and sustainable aquaculture practices.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indonesia | 18,030 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.