The Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin (*Sousa chinensis*) is a coastal marine mammal found throughout the shallow waters of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans, recognized for its distinctive humped back and long, slender beak. While not a fish but a cetacean, this species is unfortunately subject to bycatch and targeted fishing in several countries across its range. Major fishing countries impacting the Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin include China, India, Indonesia, and Thailand, where artisanal and commercial fisheries unintentionally capture dolphins in gillnets and trawl nets. In some regions, particularly parts of Southeast Asia, they are also hunted for meat or use in traditional medicine. The fishing industry in these countries is often poorly regulated regarding marine mammal bycatch, contributing to the species’ Vulnerable or Endangered status in many areas due to declining populations. Conservation efforts are underway, but enforcement and awareness remain significant challenges.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.