The Blackflash Ribbonfish (Trichiurus lepturus), also known as the Largehead Hairtail, is a slender, silver, elongated predatory fish found in warm and temperate coastal waters worldwide. Renowned for its distinctive ribbon-like body and sharp teeth, this species is highly valued in commercial fisheries for its firm, white flesh. The top countries harvesting Blackflash Ribbonfish are China, India, Indonesia, and Japan, where it forms a significant part of the coastal and artisanal fishing industries. China leads global production, with large-scale trawl and gillnet fisheries targeting ribbonfish for both domestic consumption and export. India and Indonesia also have robust fisheries, particularly along their extensive coastlines, where ribbonfish are landed in high volumes and play a crucial role in local economies. Japan, while harvesting smaller quantities, values ribbonfish as a delicacy and includes it in various traditional dishes. The fishing industry for ribbonfish in these countries is characterized by both industrial and small-scale operations, reflecting the species' abundance and economic importance throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.