Top Shads Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

"Top Shads Not Elsewhere Included" refers to a category of shad species (family Clupeidae) that are not specifically itemized in global fisheries statistics, typically encompassing lesser-known or regionally significant shads beyond the well-known American shad (Alosa sapidissima) or European shad (Alosa alosa). These fish are generally small to medium-sized, anadromous (migrating from the sea to freshwater to spawn), and are valued for their oily flesh and roe. The primary countries harvesting these miscellaneous shad species include China, India, Bangladesh, and countries in West Africa such as Nigeria and Ghana. In these regions, shads are caught both for local consumption and as a staple in artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries, often providing vital protein sources and supporting rural economies. The fishing industry for these shads is characterized by riverine and coastal net fisheries, with catches fluctuating due to environmental changes and fishing pressure.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.