The Malayan Leaffish (Pristolepis fasciata), also known as the Malayan Leaf Fish or Pristolepis, is a small, laterally compressed freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in slow-moving streams, rivers, and swampy areas with dense vegetation. Characterized by its leaf-like appearance and cryptic coloration, this species is primarily harvested for local consumption rather than large-scale commercial export. The top countries involved in fishing and harvesting the Malayan Leaffish are Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, where it is caught both for food and occasionally for the ornamental fish trade. In these countries, the fishing industry for this species is largely artisanal, with local fishers using traditional methods such as hand nets and traps. While not a major contributor to national economies, the Malayan Leaffish holds cultural and subsistence importance in rural communities across its range.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indonesia | 1,154 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.