The green turtle (*Chelonia mydas*) is a large, herbivorous sea turtle found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, recognized for its smooth, heart-shaped shell and its importance to marine ecosystems. Historically, green turtles have been harvested for their meat, eggs, and shells, with their flesh considered a delicacy in some cultures. The top countries involved in green turtle fishing have included Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and several nations in the Caribbean and Central America, such as Nicaragua and Cuba. Despite international protection under CITES and national bans in many regions, illegal and unregulated harvesting persists, driven by local demand and traditional practices. Overexploitation has led to dramatic population declines, prompting conservation efforts and stricter enforcement in many countries, though challenges remain in balancing cultural traditions with species survival.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grenada | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.