Top Leopard Coralgrouper Fishing Countries

The Leopard Coralgrouper (Plectropomus leopardus), also known as the coral trout, is a vibrantly colored predatory reef fish found throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly in coral-rich waters. Renowned for its striking red and blue-spotted appearance, this species is highly prized in the live reef food fish trade, especially for upscale seafood markets in Asia. The top countries harvesting Leopard Coralgrouper include Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, where both commercial and artisanal fisheries target the species using handlines, traps, and spearfishing. Australia, particularly the Great Barrier Reef region, is notable for its well-managed fishery, while other countries face challenges with overfishing and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The Leopard Coralgrouper’s popularity and high market value have led to concerns about sustainability, prompting some countries to implement quotas, size limits, and closed seasons to protect wild populations.

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