The Atlantic spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) is a distinctive, deep-bodied marine fish recognized by its vertical black bands and silvery coloration, commonly found in the western Atlantic from the southeastern United States through the Caribbean to Brazil. While not a primary commercial target, it is harvested incidentally and by small-scale fisheries, especially in countries with warm coastal waters. The United States, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and along the southeastern Atlantic coast, is a leading country in recreational and limited commercial spadefish harvest, with the species valued for its fighting ability among anglers. Brazil and other Caribbean nations also harvest Atlantic spadefish, typically for local consumption rather than export. Overall, the Atlantic spadefish supports modest fisheries, mainly in the U.S., Brazil, and Caribbean countries, contributing to local economies and recreational fishing industries rather than large-scale commercial export markets.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 4 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.