The marbled swamp eel (Synbranchus marmoratus) is a distinctive, elongated freshwater fish native to Central and South America, known for its mottled, marbled coloration and ability to breathe air, allowing it to survive in low-oxygen swampy environments. This species is primarily harvested in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru, where it is valued both as a food source and for local subsistence fishing. The fishing industry for marbled swamp eel is largely artisanal, with local communities employing traditional methods such as hand nets and traps in rivers, marshes, and flooded fields. While not a major export commodity, the marbled swamp eel plays an important role in regional diets and local economies, especially in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, where it is commonly sold in local markets and consumed in various traditional dishes.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brazil | 31 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.