Citharids, commonly known as "citharid flatfishes" or "large-scale flounders," are a family of demersal fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea. These flatfishes are valued for their delicate, mild-flavored flesh and are typically caught using bottom trawling methods. The main countries involved in the harvesting of citharids not elsewhere included (NEI) are Spain, Italy, and Greece, where the species contribute to both local consumption and export markets. The fishing industry for citharids in these regions is generally small-scale but important for coastal communities, with landings often reported collectively as "citharids NEI" due to the difficulty in distinguishing between similar species within the family. Sustainable management of citharid stocks is a concern, as overfishing and habitat disturbance from trawling can impact populations, prompting some countries to implement quotas and seasonal closures to protect these valuable flatfish.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Morocco | 338 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.