The Atlantic needlefish (Strongylura marina) is a slender, elongated fish known for its long, beak-like jaws filled with sharp teeth, inhabiting coastal waters, estuaries, and brackish environments along the western Atlantic Ocean from the United States to Brazil. While not a primary commercial target due to its bony structure and modest size, the Atlantic needlefish is caught incidentally in artisanal and small-scale fisheries, especially in countries with extensive coastal and estuarine habitats. The United States, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and southeastern Atlantic states, as well as Mexico, Cuba, and other Caribbean nations, are among the top regions where needlefish are harvested, mainly for local consumption, bait, or as bycatch in nets targeting other species. In these countries, needlefish contribute modestly to local economies and diets, reflecting the species’ abundance in nearshore waters and the adaptability of small-scale fisheries in utilizing diverse marine resources.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.