The butterfly kingfish (Gasterochisma melampus), also known as the butterfly mackerel, is a unique and relatively rare pelagic fish found in temperate and subtropical waters of the Southern Hemisphere. Characterized by its deep, laterally compressed body and large, sail-like dorsal fin, the butterfly kingfish is often caught as bycatch in longline fisheries targeting tuna and swordfish. The main countries involved in harvesting butterfly kingfish include New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan, where the species is valued for its firm, oily flesh and is sometimes sold fresh or frozen. While not a primary target for most commercial fisheries, the butterfly kingfish contributes to the diversity of catches in these nations’ robust pelagic fishing industries, which are regulated to ensure sustainability and minimize bycatch impacts on non-target species.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Zealand | 6 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.