Top Indian Pellona Fishing Countries

The Indian pellona (*Pellona ditchela*), commonly known as the Indian shad, is a small, schooling, silvery fish found in coastal and estuarine waters of the Indo-West Pacific, particularly around South and Southeast Asia. This species is prized for its role in local diets and as bait in larger fisheries. The top countries harvesting Indian pellona are India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, where traditional and small-scale fisheries dominate the catch. In these countries, the fishing industry relies on gillnets and cast nets to catch Indian pellona, which is then consumed fresh, dried, or salted. The fish is especially important in regional markets along the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, supporting the livelihoods of many coastal communities. While not a major export commodity, Indian pellona remains a staple in local diets and plays a significant role in food security and artisanal fisheries in these countries.

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