Top Orange Spotted Grouper Fishing Countries

The Orange Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus coioides), also known as the estuary cod, is a prized marine species found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, recognized for its distinctive orange spots and robust body. This grouper inhabits coastal reefs, estuaries, and mangroves, making it a target for both commercial and artisanal fisheries due to its high market value and demand in seafood cuisine, particularly in Asia. The leading countries harvesting Orange Spotted Grouper are China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, where both wild capture and aquaculture operations are prominent. China, in particular, has developed significant grouper farming industries, while Indonesia and Malaysia maintain substantial wild fisheries. The species is highly sought after for live fish markets, especially in Hong Kong and mainland China, fueling both legal and, at times, unregulated fishing practices. Overfishing and habitat degradation have raised concerns about the sustainability of Orange Spotted Grouper stocks, prompting some countries to implement management measures and invest in aquaculture to relieve pressure on wild populations.

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