Top Groupers, Seabasses Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Groupers and seabasses, classified under the family Serranidae, are highly prized marine fish known for their firm, flavorful flesh and are a staple in both commercial and artisanal fisheries worldwide. These species, often referred to as "groupers and seabasses not elsewhere included" in fisheries statistics, inhabit warm, tropical, and subtropical waters, particularly around coral and rocky reefs. The leading fishing countries for these species include Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Egypt, with significant contributions also from countries in the Caribbean and West Africa. Indonesia stands out as the top harvester, benefiting from its vast archipelagic waters and rich reef ecosystems. The fishing industry for groupers and seabasses is a vital economic driver in these regions, supporting local livelihoods and export markets, though it faces challenges such as overfishing and habitat degradation, prompting increased interest in aquaculture and sustainable management practices.

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