Porgies, belonging to the family Sparidae, are a group of demersal fish known for their laterally compressed bodies and strong jaws, commonly found in temperate and subtropical waters. These fish, particularly species like the common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus) and the gilt-head bream (Sparus aurata), are highly valued for their delicate, flavorful flesh. The top porgy fishing countries are primarily located around the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic, with Greece, Spain, Italy, and Turkey leading in both wild capture and aquaculture production. In addition, Portugal and Morocco are significant contributors to the porgy harvest. These nations have long histories of fishing and consuming porgies, and the species play an important role in their coastal economies, supporting both commercial fisheries and local culinary traditions. Sustainable management and aquaculture practices are increasingly important in these regions to ensure the continued abundance of porgies in the face of growing demand.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Cuba | 112 |
2 | Dominican Republic | 40 |
3 | United States of America | 5 |
4 | Mexico | 3 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.