The Rivulated Mutton Hamlet (*Alphestes afer*), a small grouper species found primarily in the western Atlantic, is recognized for its distinctive mottled coloration and preference for rocky reefs and coastal habitats. This species is commonly caught as part of artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries, particularly in the Caribbean Sea and along the northern coast of South America. The top countries involved in the harvest of the Rivulated Mutton Hamlet include Venezuela, Colombia, and Trinidad and Tobago, where it is valued both for local consumption and as a component of mixed reef fish catches. While not a primary target of large-scale industrial fisheries, the species contributes to the livelihoods of coastal communities, and its populations are monitored to ensure sustainability due to its vulnerability to overfishing and habitat degradation.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.