The bluehead, commonly known as the bluehead wrasse (*Thalassoma bifasciatum*), is a small, vibrantly colored reef fish native to the tropical western Atlantic Ocean, particularly abundant in the Caribbean Sea. While not a major commercial species like tuna or cod, bluehead wrasse are occasionally harvested for the aquarium trade and, to a lesser extent, as bait or local consumption. The primary countries involved in bluehead fishing are those bordering the Caribbean, including the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and various nations in the Lesser Antilles. These countries’ fishing industries are typically small-scale, relying on artisanal methods and focusing on a diverse array of reef fish, with bluehead wrasse representing a minor but ecologically significant component of their catches. The species plays a vital role in reef ecosystems, and sustainable management is important to maintain both the health of coral reefs and the livelihoods of local fishers.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.