The Chestnut Goby (Neogobius melanostomus), also known as the round goby, is a small, bottom-dwelling fish native to the Black Sea and Caspian Sea regions. Characterized by its robust body and distinctive dark spot on the dorsal fin, this species thrives in brackish and freshwater environments. The primary countries engaged in Chestnut Goby fishing are Russia, Ukraine, Romania, and Bulgaria, where the fish is traditionally harvested from the coastal waters and river deltas of the Black Sea. In these countries, the goby is valued both as a food source and as bait for larger fish, supporting local fisheries and small-scale commercial operations. While not a major global commodity, the Chestnut Goby plays a significant role in regional diets and economies, particularly in Eastern Europe, where it is often featured in traditional recipes and local markets.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.