Top Snakeheads Murrels Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Snakeheads and murrels, grouped under "Not Elsewhere Included" (NEI) in fisheries statistics, are predatory freshwater fish primarily from the Channidae family, notable for their elongated bodies, sharp teeth, and ability to breathe air, allowing them to survive in low-oxygen waters. These species are especially significant in South and Southeast Asia, with India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia ranking among the top fishing countries. In these regions, snakeheads and murrels are valued both as wild-caught and farmed fish, supporting local diets and livelihoods. India, in particular, has a robust murrel fishery, with species like Channa striata (the striped snakehead) being highly prized. The fishing industry for these species is characterized by small-scale, artisanal operations, though aquaculture is expanding due to high market demand. Snakeheads are also harvested in parts of China and some African countries, but Asia remains the primary hub for both capture and culture, making these nations leaders in the global snakehead and murrel fishery.

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