The rough-toothed dolphin (*Steno bredanensis*) is a medium-sized, oceanic dolphin species recognizable by its slender body, gently sloping forehead, and distinctive rough-textured teeth. Unlike many commercially targeted marine species, rough-toothed dolphins are not widely fished for food or industry; however, incidental catches (bycatch) and small-scale directed hunts occur in certain regions. The primary countries associated with the capture of rough-toothed dolphins are Japan, the Solomon Islands, and some Caribbean nations, where they are sometimes caught in drive fisheries or for local consumption. In Japan, particularly in Taiji, drive hunts occasionally target this species alongside other small cetaceans. In the Solomon Islands, dolphins—including rough-toothed dolphins—have been captured for both meat and the live animal trade. Globally, the fishing industry for rough-toothed dolphins is minimal compared to other marine species, and international concern over their conservation status has led to calls for greater protection and monitoring of these unique cetaceans.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.