Top Emperors Scavengers Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

The "Top Emperors Scavengers Not Elsewhere Included" category refers to a group of demersal fish species within the family Lethrinidae, commonly known as emperors or scavengers, that are not classified under more specific trade codes. These fish are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, inhabiting coral reefs and sandy bottoms, and are valued for their firm, white flesh. Major fishing countries for these species include Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and several nations in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean regions. The fishing industry for emperors and related scavengers is often small-scale and artisanal, though some commercial operations exist, particularly in Southeast Asia. These fish are primarily caught using handlines, traps, and gillnets, and are important both for local consumption and export markets. Overfishing and habitat degradation are concerns in some areas, prompting efforts to improve management and sustainability of these valuable fishery resources.

RankCountryMetric Tons
1Indonesia24,790
2Oman22,797
3India12,746
4Saudi Arabia8,585
5United Republic of Tanzania, Zanzibar2,790
6Pakistan2,675
7Kenya2,528
8United Republic of Tanzania2,419
9United Arab Emirates2,220
10Egypt2,180
11Yemen1,985
12Malaysia1,864
13Fiji880
14Mauritius818
15Kiribati550
16Seychelles300
17Bahrain200
18Mayotte180
19Comoros70
20Kuwait63
21Eritrea52
22Guam7
23South Africa5
23Jordan5
25Northern Mariana Islands2
26Réunion1

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