Top Spadefishes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Spadefishes, grouped under the category "Top Spadefishes Not Elsewhere Included" in global fisheries statistics, refer primarily to species within the family Ephippidae, such as the Atlantic spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) and various Indo-Pacific counterparts. These medium-sized, laterally compressed fish are found in warm coastal waters, often near reefs, wrecks, and estuaries. The spadefish is valued for its white, mild-flavored flesh, making it a popular target for both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The leading countries harvesting spadefishes include China, Indonesia, and the Philippines, where they are caught using nets and traps, and are sold fresh or dried in local markets. While not a major export commodity compared to tuna or shrimp, spadefish contribute significantly to local food security and small-scale fisheries economies in these regions.

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