The mud sole (commonly *Solea elongata* or related species, depending on region) is a bottom-dwelling flatfish found in muddy or sandy coastal waters, prized for its delicate, mild-flavored flesh. This species is primarily harvested in the Indo-Pacific region, with the top mud sole fishing countries including China, India, Bangladesh, and Thailand. China leads global production, utilizing both wild capture and aquaculture to meet domestic and export demand. India and Bangladesh also have significant mud sole fisheries, especially in estuarine and coastal areas where artisanal fishers rely on traditional methods. Thailand’s fishing industry targets mud sole for local consumption and export, often as part of mixed flatfish catches. The mud sole fishery supports coastal economies but faces challenges from habitat degradation and overfishing, prompting some countries to implement management measures to ensure sustainability.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 119 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.