Grenadiers, also known as rattails, are deep-sea fish belonging to the family Macrouridae, characterized by their large heads, tapered bodies, and long, slender tails. The "Top Grenadiers Not Elsewhere Included" category refers to various grenadier species that are not individually specified in catch statistics, often grouped due to their similar appearance and overlapping habitats. These fish are typically found at depths ranging from 200 to over 2,000 meters in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. The primary fishing nations harvesting grenadiers in this category include New Zealand, Spain, Portugal, and Russia, with significant catches also reported by Norway and Iceland. The grenadier fishery is largely driven by demand from Asian and European markets, where the flesh is valued for its mild flavor and firm texture. However, the deep-sea nature of grenadiers makes them vulnerable to overfishing, prompting several countries to implement stricter management measures and international agreements to ensure the sustainability of these unique deep-water resources.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | France | 710 |
2 | Falkland Islands (Malvinas) | 154 |
3 | United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | 106 |
4 | Uruguay | 23 |
5 | Republic of Korea | 19 |
6 | Ukraine | 13 |
7 | Australia | 12 |
8 | New Zealand | 8 |
9 | Japan | 5 |
10 | South Africa | 3 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.