Top Cannonball Jellyfish Fishing Countries

The cannonball jellyfish (Stomolophus meleagris) is a round, dome-shaped jellyfish commonly found in the warm coastal waters of the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its mild sting and high collagen content, this species has become a valuable seafood commodity, particularly in Asian markets where jellyfish is a delicacy. The top countries engaged in the commercial harvest of cannonball jellyfish include the United States—especially the southeastern states like Georgia and South Carolina—Mexico, and China. In the U.S., the cannonball jellyfish fishery has grown rapidly since the late 20th century, with most of the catch exported to China, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia, where it is processed and consumed in salads and other dishes. Mexico also harvests significant quantities along its Gulf coast, while China both fishes and imports cannonball jellyfish to meet domestic demand. The industry is notable for its seasonality, labor-intensive processing, and its role in supporting coastal economies.

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