The boxlip mullet (Oedalechilus labeo) is a coastal fish species found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, recognized for its distinctively squared-off upper lip and silvery body. This mullet is valued both as a food fish and for its roe, which is used in delicacies like bottarga. The top countries harvesting boxlip mullet are primarily located around the Mediterranean basin and the West African coast, including Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and Turkey. These nations have well-established fisheries that target mullets using traditional methods such as gillnets and beach seines. In Egypt, for example, mullet fisheries—especially in the Nile Delta and along the Mediterranean coast—are a significant part of the local fishing industry, supporting both domestic consumption and export markets. The boxlip mullet’s adaptability to brackish waters and estuaries makes it a staple species for artisanal and small-scale fisheries across its range.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | France | 40 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.