The Spotted Sardinella (Amblygaster sirm) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found in tropical and subtropical coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Recognizable by its slender body, silver coloration, and distinctive dark spots along its flanks, this species plays a significant role in regional fisheries. The top countries harvesting Spotted Sardinella include India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, where it is caught primarily using purse seines and gillnets. These nations rely on the species both for direct human consumption—often processed as dried, salted, or canned fish—and as a key ingredient in fishmeal for aquaculture and livestock feed. The Spotted Sardinella fishery is vital for coastal communities, supporting livelihoods and food security, but is also subject to pressures from overfishing and environmental changes, prompting efforts toward sustainable management in major producing countries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indonesia | 46,417 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.