John’s snapper, commonly known as the jobfish or flame snapper (Etelis spp.), is a prized deepwater species found in tropical and subtropical waters, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Renowned for its firm, white flesh and high market value, John’s snapper supports important commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting this species include Indonesia, the Philippines, Fiji, and Australia, where both local consumption and export markets drive demand. In these nations, John’s snapper is typically caught using handlines, bottom longlines, and traps, with the fisheries often managed under strict regulations to prevent overfishing. The species’ popularity in Asian and Pacific cuisines, combined with sustainable fishing practices in some regions, ensures its continued significance in the global seafood industry.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Iran (Islamic Republic of) | 7,700 |
2 | Saudi Arabia | 160 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.