Top Mottled Grouper Fishing Countries

The mottled grouper (*Mycteroperca rubra*) is a robust, predatory fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, recognized for its distinctive mottled brown and reddish coloration. This species inhabits rocky reefs and coastal areas, making it a prized catch for both commercial and recreational fisheries due to its firm, flavorful flesh. The top countries harvesting mottled grouper include Spain, Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco, where the species is targeted by small-scale artisanal fisheries using hook-and-line, traps, and nets. In these regions, the mottled grouper contributes to local economies and seafood markets, though concerns about overfishing and habitat degradation have led to stricter management measures in some areas, particularly in the Mediterranean, to ensure the sustainability of this valuable resource.

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