The streaked spinefoot (Siganus javus), also known as the Java rabbitfish, is a herbivorous marine fish found throughout the Indo-West Pacific, particularly in shallow coastal waters, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Recognized for its olive-green body marked with distinctive streaks, this species is valued both as a food fish and for its role in local artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting streaked spinefoot include Indonesia, India, the Philippines, and Malaysia, where the species is caught using traditional nets, traps, and sometimes spearfishing. In these regions, streaked spinefoot forms an important part of coastal diets and local economies, with Indonesia and the Philippines leading in both wild capture and small-scale aquaculture production. The fish is typically sold fresh in local markets, contributing significantly to food security and livelihoods in Southeast Asia and South Asia.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Saudi Arabia | 15 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.