Top Stolephorus Anchovies Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Stolephorus anchovies, commonly referred to as "whitebait anchovies," are small, schooling fish found primarily in tropical and subtropical coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region. These anchovies are prized for their use in local cuisines, fish sauces, and as bait in larger fisheries. The top countries harvesting Stolephorus anchovies—often grouped under "not elsewhere included" (nei) in fisheries statistics due to the diversity of similar species—are Indonesia, India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. These nations have vibrant small-scale and commercial fisheries targeting Stolephorus species, with Indonesia and India leading global catches. The fishing industry for these anchovies is crucial for coastal communities, providing employment and a vital source of protein, while also supporting export markets, particularly in Southeast Asia.

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