Grunts, belonging to the family Haemulidae, are medium-sized, schooling marine fish found primarily in tropical and subtropical coastal waters, especially in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. Known for the grunting sound they produce by grinding their pharyngeal teeth, these fish are important both ecologically and as a food source. The term "Grunts Not Elsewhere Included" refers to various grunt species not classified under more specific categories in fisheries statistics. Major fishing countries for these species include Mexico, Venezuela, Indonesia, and India, where grunts are harvested primarily by artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries using nets and lines. The catch is typically sold fresh in local markets, contributing to food security and livelihoods in coastal communities. While not as globally prominent as some other fish groups, grunts remain a vital resource in many tropical and subtropical nations.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Saudi Arabia | 23 |
2 | Bermuda | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.