The Lemoneye Grunt (Haemulon squamipinna) is a medium-sized, schooling marine fish recognized for its silvery body and distinctive yellow eyes, commonly found in the tropical western Atlantic, particularly along the coasts of the Caribbean and South America. This species inhabits coral reefs and rocky bottoms, making it a popular target for small-scale commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting Lemoneye Grunt include Brazil, Venezuela, and other Caribbean nations such as Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, where the fish is valued both for local consumption and as a part of mixed-species catches in nearshore fisheries. While not a primary export species, Lemoneye Grunt plays an important role in local economies and food security, supporting coastal communities with fresh fish supplies and contributing to the diverse catch that sustains traditional fishing industries in these regions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 19 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.