The ocean sunfish (Mola mola) is one of the world’s heaviest bony fish, recognized for its unique, flattened body and enormous size, sometimes weighing over 2,000 kg. This species inhabits temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, and while not a primary target for most commercial fisheries, it is occasionally caught as bycatch or for specific markets. The main countries known for harvesting ocean sunfish include Japan, Taiwan, and Indonesia, where the fish is sometimes consumed locally or used in traditional dishes. In Japan, for example, sunfish (called "manbou") is considered a delicacy in some regions, and its various parts are used in soups, sashimi, and stews. Although the global fishing industry for ocean sunfish is relatively small compared to other commercial species, these countries have developed niche markets and culinary uses for the fish, while international conservation efforts monitor its populations due to concerns about bycatch and vulnerability to overfishing.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taiwan Province of China | 154 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.