The Redtail Prawn, also known as the Redtail Shrimp (Metapenaeus ensis), is a commercially valuable crustacean found primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting estuarine and coastal waters. This species is prized for its sweet, delicate flesh and is a staple in both local and export seafood markets. The top countries engaged in the harvesting of Redtail Prawn include China, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and Bangladesh, where extensive coastal and estuarine environments support large-scale fisheries. These nations employ both traditional and modern fishing techniques, ranging from artisanal cast nets to mechanized trawlers, to meet the high demand for Redtail Prawn in domestic consumption and international trade. The Redtail Prawn fishery is a significant contributor to the livelihoods of coastal communities and plays an important role in the economies of these countries, although it also faces challenges related to overfishing and habitat degradation.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taiwan Province of China | 59 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.