Cardinal fishes, belonging to the family Apogonidae, are small, colorful, nocturnal marine species found primarily in tropical and subtropical waters. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fisheries, they are occasionally harvested for local consumption and, more notably, for the ornamental aquarium trade. The category "Top Cardinal Fishes Not Elsewhere Included" generally refers to countries that catch cardinal fishes outside of the major producers. Nations such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka are notable for their involvement in the capture and export of cardinal fishes, particularly to meet the demand of the global aquarium market. These countries utilize artisanal fishing methods, and the industry provides economic support to coastal communities. However, overfishing and habitat degradation pose risks to cardinal fish populations, prompting some regions to implement management measures to ensure sustainable harvests.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chile | 33 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.