Top Ponyfishes Slipmouths Fishing Countries

Ponyfishes, also known as slipmouths (family Leiognathidae), are small, silvery marine fish found predominantly in the Indo-Pacific region, recognized for their distinctive protrusible mouths. These fish are important in local commercial and artisanal fisheries, especially in Southeast Asia. The top countries harvesting ponyfishes and slipmouths include Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia, where they are caught using trawls, seines, and traditional nets. Ponyfishes are valued for their abundance and are commonly used as food, fish meal, or bait. The fishing industry for this species is characterized by high-volume, small-scale operations that supply both local markets and, to a lesser extent, regional trade. Sustainable management is increasingly important as these fish play a key role in coastal ecosystems and are a staple protein source for many communities.

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