The common parrotfish, belonging to the family Scaridae, are brightly colored reef fish known for their beak-like teeth used to graze on algae and coral, playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy coral reef ecosystems. These fish are highly valued for their meat in many tropical and subtropical regions. The top countries involved in parrotfish fishing include the Philippines, Indonesia, and several Caribbean nations such as Jamaica and the Bahamas, where parrotfish are both a staple food and a source of income for local fishers. In the Pacific, Fiji and Papua New Guinea also have active parrotfish fisheries. However, overfishing in these regions has raised concerns about reef health, prompting some countries to introduce regulations or bans on parrotfish harvesting to preserve their vital ecological role.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.