The Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) is a prized marine fish native to the Mediterranean and eastern coastal Atlantic, recognized for its distinctive golden band between the eyes and its high-quality, flavorful flesh. This species is both wild-caught and extensively farmed, making it a cornerstone of Mediterranean aquaculture. The leading countries in gilthead seabream production are Greece and Turkey, which together account for the majority of global supply, primarily through advanced aquaculture techniques. Spain and Italy also play significant roles, both in wild capture and farming, while Egypt has emerged as a growing producer in recent years. The gilthead seabream industry is vital to these countries, supporting local economies and export markets, with most of the harvest destined for European consumers who value the fish for its taste and culinary versatility.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Tunisia | 2,270 |
2 | Egypt | 2,264 |
3 | France | 1,728 |
4 | Mauritania | 1,080 |
5 | Greece | 700 |
6 | Türkiye | 559 |
7 | Spain | 463 |
8 | Italy | 453 |
9 | Morocco | 255 |
10 | Croatia | 229 |
11 | Portugal | 212 |
12 | Libya | 130 |
13 | Senegal | 115 |
14 | Albania | 38 |
15 | Syrian Arab Republic | 20 |
16 | Montenegro | 5 |
16 | Cyprus | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.