The Pacific cornetfish (Fistularia commersonii) is a slender, elongated marine species found throughout tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Recognizable by its pipe-like body and long, whip-like tail filament, the Pacific cornetfish inhabits coastal reefs and seagrass beds, often blending into its surroundings. While not a primary target for large-scale commercial fisheries, it is caught incidentally in artisanal and small-scale fisheries, particularly in countries with extensive reef systems. The top Pacific cornetfish fishing countries include Indonesia, the Philippines, and India, where local fishers harvest this species using nets and traps, often as bycatch alongside other reef fish. The cornetfish is consumed locally, sometimes sold fresh in markets, and occasionally used as bait. Although its economic importance is minor compared to more commercially valuable species, it contributes to the diversity of catches in these coastal fishing communities.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 3,546 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.