Top Indian Driftfish Fishing Countries

The Indian driftfish (*Cubiceps squamiceps*) is a small, pelagic species found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. Recognized for its silvery body and schooling behavior, this fish is typically caught as bycatch in pelagic trawl and drift net fisheries rather than being a targeted commercial species. The top countries involved in harvesting Indian driftfish include India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, where the fish is utilized locally for food or fishmeal. While not a major economic driver compared to more prominent pelagic species, Indian driftfish contributes to the diverse catch in these nations' multi-species fisheries, supporting both artisanal and industrial fishing sectors.

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