The rainbow wrasse (*Coris julis*) is a vibrant, small marine fish native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, easily recognized by its striking coloration and elongated body. This species is commonly found in shallow, rocky, and seagrass habitats, making it accessible to both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries involved in harvesting rainbow wrasse are primarily Mediterranean nations such as Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, where the fish is valued for local consumption and, to a lesser extent, the aquarium trade. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fisheries, rainbow wrasse is often caught as bycatch in traditional fishing methods like trammel nets and handlines, contributing modestly to the small-scale fishing economies of these regions. Sustainable management is important, as the species plays a significant ecological role in controlling invertebrate populations within its habitat.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.