Top Jobfishes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Jobfishes, commonly grouped under the genus *Aphareus* and related genera, are tropical and subtropical reef-associated fish prized for their firm, white flesh and commercial value. Often categorized in FAO catch statistics as "Jobfishes not elsewhere included," these species include the green jobfish (*Aprion virescens*) and rusty jobfish (*Aphareus rutilans*), among others. The leading countries harvesting jobfishes are primarily island and coastal nations in the Indo-Pacific region, notably Indonesia, the Philippines, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea. These countries rely on artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries, using handlines, traps, and sometimes longlines to target jobfishes on outer reef slopes and deepwater habitats. Jobfish are important both for local consumption and export, supporting livelihoods and food security in many Pacific communities. The fishing industry faces challenges such as overfishing and habitat degradation, prompting some countries to implement management measures to ensure sustainable stocks.

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