The Paloma Pompano, commonly referred to as the Florida pompano (*Trachinotus carolinus*), is a prized coastal fish species known for its silvery body, deep shape, and delicious, mild-flavored flesh. This species inhabits warm, shallow waters of the western Atlantic, particularly along the coasts of the United States, Mexico, and several Caribbean nations. The United States, especially Florida, leads in both commercial and recreational pompano fishing, with a well-established industry supplying fresh pompano to domestic and international markets. Mexico also boasts a significant pompano fishery, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico, where artisanal and commercial fishers target this species. Other notable countries harvesting Paloma Pompano include Brazil and some Caribbean nations, where the fish is valued both for local consumption and export. Sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized in these regions to ensure the long-term viability of pompano stocks amid growing demand.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 183 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.