The oxeye scad (Selar boops) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Recognizable by its large eyes and streamlined body, it is an important species for commercial and artisanal fisheries, particularly in Southeast Asia. The top oxeye scad fishing countries include Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and India, where the species is harvested using purse seines, gillnets, and other small-scale fishing gears. These nations rely on oxeye scad as a significant source of protein for local consumption and, to a lesser extent, for export. The fish is often sold fresh, dried, or salted, playing a crucial role in coastal economies and food security in these regions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Malaysia | 16,201 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.