Ribbonfishes, belonging to the family Trichiuridae, are elongated, silvery marine fish known for their distinctive ribbon-like bodies and are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. These fish are highly valued for their delicate flesh and are a significant target for commercial fisheries, particularly in Asia. The top ribbonfish fishing countries include China, India, Indonesia, and Japan, with China being the largest harvester by a wide margin—its coastal waters host abundant ribbonfish populations, supporting both local consumption and export markets. India’s west coast, especially in states like Gujarat and Maharashtra, also sustains a robust ribbonfish fishery, where the species is caught primarily by trawlers and traditional fishing boats. Indonesia and Japan contribute notably to global catches, with ribbonfish being an important component of their coastal fisheries. The ribbonfish industry in these countries supports thousands of livelihoods and plays a vital role in regional seafood markets.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Cameroon | 5,810 |
2 | United States of America | 33 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.