The prickly redfish (Thelenota ananas) is a large, spiny sea cucumber found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, known for its thick, reddish skin covered in prominent papillae. Highly valued in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine, particularly as a delicacy in China, the prickly redfish supports a significant fishery driven by international demand for dried sea cucumbers, or "bêche-de-mer." The top countries engaged in the harvesting of prickly redfish include Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and several Pacific Island nations such as Fiji and the Solomon Islands. These countries' coastal communities rely heavily on the collection and export of prickly redfish, often employing artisanal and small-scale fishing methods. Overexploitation and high market prices have led to concerns about population declines, prompting some nations to implement stricter regulations and management measures to ensure the sustainability of this valuable marine resource.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seychelles | 61 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.