Top Kyphosus Sea Chubs Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Kyphosus sea chubs, commonly known as rudderfish or chubs, are medium-sized, schooling marine fish found in subtropical and tropical coastal waters worldwide, often associated with rocky reefs and kelp forests. These herbivorous fish are notable for their oval bodies and strong jaws adapted for grazing on algae. The commercial and artisanal fishing of Kyphosus species is relatively localized, with the top harvesting countries including Japan, Taiwan, Australia, and some Pacific Island nations. In Japan, Kyphosus chubs—locally called "mejina"—are valued both as a food source and for recreational fishing, with established small-scale fisheries. In Australia and the Pacific Islands, these fish are caught for local consumption and sometimes appear in local markets, but they generally do not support large-scale export industries. Overall, the Kyphosus fishery is modest compared to more commercially targeted species, but it remains important for coastal communities in regions where these fish are abundant.

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