The peacock hind (Cephalopholis argus), also known as the blue-spotted grouper, is a vibrant reef fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, recognized for its striking blue spots and predatory behavior. This species is highly valued in both commercial and recreational fisheries due to its firm, tasty flesh and attractive appearance, making it a popular target in the live reef food fish trade. The top countries harvesting peacock hind include Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand, where artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries play a significant role in local economies. These nations export peacock hind primarily to markets in Hong Kong and mainland China, where demand for live groupers is high. Overfishing and habitat degradation, however, have raised concerns about the sustainability of peacock hind populations, prompting some regions to implement management measures and marine protected areas to safeguard this valuable species.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saudi Arabia | 15 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.