The Black Snapper (Apsilus dentatus), also known as the blackfin snapper, is a deep-water species found primarily in the Western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Recognized for its dark coloration and firm, white flesh, the black snapper is highly prized in commercial and recreational fisheries. The top countries harvesting black snapper include the United States (particularly in the Gulf states like Florida and Louisiana), Mexico, Cuba, and the Bahamas, where the species is caught using hook-and-line, traps, and longlines. These nations have established fishing industries targeting snapper species due to their high market demand and value, with black snapper often sold fresh in local markets and exported to international seafood markets. Sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized in these countries to ensure healthy populations and the long-term viability of the black snapper fishery.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Puerto Rico | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.