God's Flounder, more commonly known as the European plaice (Pleuronectes platessa), is a highly valued flatfish species found in the northeastern Atlantic, particularly in the shallow coastal waters of the North Sea, Irish Sea, and surrounding regions. Renowned for its delicate, mild-flavored flesh and distinctive orange spots, this demersal fish is a staple in European cuisine. The top countries engaged in the commercial harvest of plaice include the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Germany, all of which have developed robust fishing industries centered around trawl and beam trawl fisheries. These nations have established sustainable management practices, including quotas and seasonal closures, to ensure the long-term viability of plaice stocks, making them leaders in both the catch and conservation of this iconic flatfish.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Panama | 92 |
2 | Ecuador | 38 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.