Conger eels, a group of elongated, predatory fish primarily belonging to the family Congridae, are found in temperate and tropical seas worldwide, often inhabiting rocky crevices and coastal waters. These eels, particularly the European conger (Conger conger) and other species not elsewhere included (NEI) in specific statistics, are sought after for their firm, white flesh, which is prized in Mediterranean and East Asian cuisines. The top countries engaged in the capture of conger eels NEI include Spain, Italy, Japan, and South Korea, where the species are harvested both by artisanal and commercial fisheries using longlines, traps, and trawls. Spain and Italy have longstanding traditions of conger eel fishing in the Mediterranean and Atlantic, incorporating the fish into regional dishes, while Japan and South Korea target native conger species such as Conger myriaster, which is a staple in dishes like "anago" sushi. The conger eel fishing industry, though smaller than those for more commercially prominent species, remains significant in these countries due to cultural preferences and local market demand.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ireland | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.