Top Canary Damsel Fishing Countries

The Canary damsel (Similiparma lurida) is a small, vibrant blue and yellow damselfish native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean, particularly around the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Azores. This species inhabits rocky coastal reefs and is popular in the aquarium trade due to its striking coloration and hardy nature. The commercial fishing industry for Canary damsel is relatively minor compared to larger food fish, with most harvests occurring on a small scale for local consumption and the ornamental fish market. Spain (specifically the Canary Islands), Portugal (Madeira and the Azores), and, to a lesser extent, Morocco are the top countries involved in the capture and export of this species. While not a major target for large-scale fisheries, the Canary damsel plays a role in local artisanal fisheries and is occasionally caught as bycatch in other coastal fishing operations.

RankCountryMetric Tons

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.