The term "Gulf butterfishes not elsewhere included" generally refers to a group of small, silvery fish in the family Stromateidae, commonly found in warm coastal waters, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and adjacent regions. These butterfishes are characterized by their deep, laterally compressed bodies and soft, delicate flesh, making them popular in local cuisines. The main countries involved in harvesting these species are the United States (especially along the Gulf Coast), Mexico, and to a lesser extent, Cuba and other Caribbean nations. The fishing industry for Gulf butterfishes is typically small-scale and artisanal, with catches often destined for local markets rather than large-scale export. In the United States, these fish are sometimes caught as bycatch in shrimp trawl fisheries, while in Mexico, targeted small-boat fisheries supply regional demand. Although not as commercially significant as other Gulf species, butterfishes contribute to the diversity and resilience of coastal fisheries in these countries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombia | 70 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.