The term "devil fish" most commonly refers to the giant devil ray (*Mobula mobular*) or, in some regions, the manta ray (*Manta birostris*), both large cartilaginous fish found in temperate and tropical waters. These species are characterized by their broad, wing-like pectoral fins and distinctive cephalic lobes, giving them a striking appearance. Devil fish are targeted primarily for their gill plates, which are used in traditional Asian medicine, as well as for their meat and as bycatch in various fisheries. The top countries involved in devil fish fishing include Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, the Philippines, and Peru. These nations have significant artisanal and commercial fisheries that harvest devil fish, often with little regulation, leading to concerns about population declines and conservation. International efforts, such as CITES listings, are increasingly important in managing and protecting these vulnerable species from overexploitation.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pakistan | 9 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.