The starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus) is a demersal flatfish recognized by its distinctive star-shaped scales and ability to thrive in both salt and brackish waters along the North Pacific coasts. This species is primarily found from California up through Alaska, across the Bering Sea, and along the coasts of Russia, Korea, and Japan. The top starry flounder fishing countries are the United States (notably Alaska), Russia, Japan, and South Korea, where the fish is targeted by both commercial and artisanal fisheries. These nations harvest starry flounder for local consumption, export, and as a valued species in mixed flatfish catches. While not as economically significant as other flatfish like halibut or sole, the starry flounder supports important regional fisheries, particularly in the North Pacific and the Sea of Okhotsk, where sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized to maintain healthy populations.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 5 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.