Top Freshwater Siluroids Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

The term "Top Freshwater Siluroids Not Elsewhere Included" refers to a diverse group of catfish species within the order Siluriformes that are not categorized under more commercially prominent siluroid families like Pangasiidae or Clariidae. These catfish are primarily harvested for food and local consumption, especially in regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. Countries such as India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and various nations in West and Central Africa are leading producers, utilizing both capture fisheries and aquaculture systems. The species in this group are valued for their adaptability to a range of freshwater habitats and their resilience, making them important for local economies and food security. The fishing industry for these siluroids is often small-scale, supporting rural livelihoods and traditional markets, though some nations have begun to invest in more intensive aquaculture to meet growing demand.

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