The Shortjaw Leatherjacket (Oligoplites refulgens) is a small, silvery marine fish belonging to the family Carangidae, commonly found in the coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to northern Peru. This species is recognized for its compressed body, short jaw, and distinctive leathery skin, making it a minor but locally important target for artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries. The top countries involved in harvesting Shortjaw Leatherjacket include Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru, where the fish is caught using gillnets and handlines, often as part of mixed-species catches. While the global fishing industry for this species is relatively modest compared to larger commercial fish, it plays a significant role in supporting local economies and providing protein to coastal communities throughout its range.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 81 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.