Top Black Catfishes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Black catfishes, a group of freshwater catfish species primarily from the family Pimelodidae and related families, are native to South America and are highly valued for their firm, white flesh and adaptability to aquaculture. These catfishes are distinct from the more globally known channel catfish and are not included in the main commercial catfish categories. The top fishing countries for black catfishes not elsewhere included (NEI) are Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela, where extensive river systems like the Amazon and Orinoco provide ideal habitats. In these countries, black catfishes are harvested both from the wild and through aquaculture operations, contributing significantly to local economies and food security. The fishing industry for black catfishes in these regions is a mix of artisanal and commercial operations, with the fish being consumed domestically and exported to international markets, especially within South America.

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