Top Flatheads Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Flatheads, classified under the family Platycephalidae, are bottom-dwelling fish commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, especially in coastal waters and estuaries. The term "Flatheads Not Elsewhere Included" (NEI) refers to various flathead species that are not specifically identified in catch statistics, often grouped together due to similar appearance and overlapping habitats. These fish are valued for their firm, white flesh and are targeted by both commercial and artisanal fisheries. Australia stands out as the leading country in flathead harvest, particularly in states like New South Wales and Victoria, where species such as the dusky flathead (Platycephalus fuscus) are prominent. Other significant flathead fishing countries include Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand, where flatheads are caught using trawls, gillnets, and handlines. The flathead fishery supports local economies and provides an important source of protein, though sustainable management is increasingly emphasized to prevent overfishing and habitat degradation.

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