Snowtrouts, primarily belonging to the genera Schizothorax and Schizothoraichthys, are cold-water cyprinid fishes native to the high-altitude rivers and lakes of the Himalayas and Central Asia. These fish are well-adapted to fast-flowing, oxygen-rich waters and are a vital resource for local fisheries. The top countries harvesting snowtrouts, aside from the most prominent producers like China and India, include Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. In these countries, snowtrout fishing supports both subsistence and small-scale commercial fisheries, contributing significantly to local diets and economies. The fishing industry for snowtrouts in these regions is characterized by traditional methods, though there is increasing interest in aquaculture and sustainable management due to rising demand and ecological concerns.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bhutan | 9 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.