The Black Triggerfish (Melichthys niger), also known as the black durgon, is a reef-dwelling species found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, particularly around coral reefs in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Recognized for their deep, laterally compressed bodies and striking dark coloration, black triggerfish are valued both as food and for the aquarium trade. Major fishing countries include Indonesia, the Philippines, and several Pacific Island nations, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries target the species for local consumption and export. In the Atlantic, countries such as Brazil and Cape Verde also harvest black triggerfish, often as part of mixed reef fish catches. While not a primary target of large-scale commercial fisheries, the species plays an important role in local economies and subsistence fishing, with sustainable management practices becoming increasingly important due to concerns about reef health and overfishing.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.