The "suckers not elsewhere included" category refers to various species within the family Catostomidae, commonly known as suckers, which are freshwater fish native primarily to North America. These fish are characterized by their fleshy, downturned mouths adapted for bottom-feeding on aquatic invertebrates and detritus. While not as commercially prominent as other freshwater fish, suckers are harvested for food, bait, and sometimes for fish meal. The United States and Canada are the leading countries in the harvest of these species, particularly in the Great Lakes region, where commercial and recreational fisheries target species such as the white sucker (Catostomus commersonii) and longnose sucker (Catostomus catostomus). In these countries, sucker fishing supports local economies and traditional foodways, especially in Indigenous and rural communities. Although less significant on the global market, the sustainable management of sucker populations remains important for maintaining freshwater ecosystem health and supporting regional fishing industries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | 1,723 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.