The French grunt (*Haemulon flavolineatum*) is a small, vibrantly striped reef fish found primarily in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and along the coasts of Florida, the Bahamas, and Central and South America. Recognized for its yellow and blue stripes and grunting sound produced by grinding its pharyngeal teeth, the French grunt is a popular catch in artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries. The top countries harvesting French grunt include Cuba, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and other Caribbean nations, where the species is commonly caught using traps, nets, and handlines. While not a major export commodity, French grunt is an important source of protein for local communities and is often sold fresh in local markets. The fishing industry for French grunt is generally small-scale but plays a vital role in supporting coastal livelihoods throughout the Caribbean region.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 4 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.