Hamilton's thryssa (Thryssa hamiltonii) is a small, schooling species of anchovy found in coastal and estuarine waters throughout the Indo-West Pacific region. Recognized by its slender, silvery body and distinctive lower jaw, this fish plays a significant role in local fisheries due to its abundance and use as food, bait, and fishmeal. The top countries harvesting Hamilton's thryssa include India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia, where artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries target the species using seine nets and other traditional gear. These nations rely on thryssa catches both for domestic consumption and as a source of livelihood for coastal communities, with the fish often processed into dried or fermented products. The fishing industry for Hamilton's thryssa is characterized by its importance to food security and local economies, particularly in South and Southeast Asia.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Indonesia | 13,023 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.