Top Cuttlefish, Bobtail Squids Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Cuttlefish and bobtail squids, both belonging to the order Sepiida and Sepiolida respectively, are cephalopod mollusks prized for their tender flesh and culinary versatility, especially in Mediterranean and East Asian cuisines. These species are found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, with cuttlefish particularly abundant in the Mediterranean Sea, the eastern Atlantic, and parts of the Indo-Pacific. The leading countries in the commercial harvest of cuttlefish and bobtail squids include China, India, Spain, Italy, and Morocco, where specialized trawl and trap fisheries target these species for both domestic consumption and export. China and India dominate global production, supplying vast quantities to international markets, while Mediterranean nations like Spain and Italy have long traditions of cuttlefish fishing, often using artisanal methods. The industry is economically significant in these regions, but it also faces challenges such as overfishing and habitat degradation, prompting efforts toward sustainable management practices.

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