Snipefishes, primarily belonging to the family Macroramphosidae, are small, slender marine fish recognized by their elongated snouts and silvery bodies. These deep-sea species are not typically targeted by large-scale commercial fisheries but are instead caught as bycatch or in small artisanal operations. The category "Snipefishes Not Elsewhere Included" in fisheries statistics refers to snipefish species not specifically identified in catch reports. The top countries harvesting these fish are generally those with extensive deep-sea trawling fleets or diverse marine catches, such as Japan, Spain, Portugal, and New Zealand. In these nations, snipefishes may be utilized for fishmeal, animal feed, or occasionally for local consumption, though their economic significance remains minor compared to more prominent commercial species. The fishing industry for snipefishes is thus relatively small and specialized, reflecting both the limited demand and the niche ecological role of these unique fish.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Zealand | 12 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.