Top Characins Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Characins, belonging to the family Characidae and related families, are a diverse group of freshwater fish native primarily to Central and South America, with some species in Africa. Well-known members include tetras and piranhas, but the "Top Characins Not Elsewhere Included" category in fisheries statistics refers to commercially important species not classified under more specific characin groups. These fish are typically harvested for food in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, with Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Venezuela being the leading fishing countries. The characin fishery in these regions is largely artisanal, supporting local diets and livelihoods, though some larger operations supply regional markets. Characins are valued for their mild flavor and are often caught using nets, lines, and traditional methods, reflecting the cultural and economic importance of freshwater fisheries in tropical South America.

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