Top Malabar Blood Snapper Fishing Countries

The Malabar blood snapper (Lutjanus malabaricus), also known as the saddletail snapper or red snapper in some regions, is a prized demersal fish found throughout the Indo-West Pacific, particularly in tropical and subtropical waters. Characterized by its vibrant red coloration and firm, flavorful flesh, this species is highly valued both commercially and recreationally. The top countries harvesting Malabar blood snapper include Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia, all of which have extensive fisheries targeting snapper species for domestic consumption and export. Indonesia and India, with their vast coastal waters and traditional fishing communities, are among the leading producers. In Australia, the species is commonly caught in the Northern Territory and Western Australia, where sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized. The Malabar blood snapper supports important livelihoods in these regions, but overfishing and habitat degradation are concerns, prompting several countries to implement regulations to ensure the long-term viability of this valuable fishery.

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