Top Gulf Parrotfish Fishing Countries

The Gulf parrotfish (Scarus spp. and related genera) are brightly colored reef fish found throughout the warm, shallow waters of the Persian Gulf and adjacent seas. Known for their beak-like jaws used to scrape algae from coral, these fish play a vital ecological role in maintaining healthy reef systems. In the Gulf region, parrotfish are targeted by small-scale and artisanal fisheries, primarily for local consumption. The top Gulf parrotfish fishing countries include Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, where they are commonly landed in mixed reef fish catches. While parrotfish are not typically a primary commercial target like groupers or snappers, their popularity in local markets and restaurants has led to increased fishing pressure, raising concerns about overharvesting and reef health in some areas. Regional fisheries management organizations and conservationists are working to monitor and regulate catches to ensure the sustainability of parrotfish populations in the Gulf.

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