The slender thread herring (Opisthopterus tardoore) is a small, silvery pelagic fish found primarily in the coastal waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific. It is recognized by its elongated body and distinctive thread-like fin rays. This species plays an important role in artisanal and commercial fisheries, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. The top countries harvesting slender thread herring include India, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia, where it is caught using purse seines, gillnets, and traditional fishing gears. The fish is valued both as fresh food and for processing into dried, salted, or fermented products, contributing significantly to local economies and food security in these regions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecuador | 41 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.