Top Surmullets Red Mullets Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Surmullets, commonly referred to as red mullets, belong primarily to the Mullidae family, with the most notable species being the striped red mullet (*Mullus surmuletus*) and the red mullet (*Mullus barbatus*). These demersal fish are highly valued for their delicate flavor and are prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and the eastern North Atlantic. The leading countries harvesting surmullets and related red mullets include Turkey, Greece, Italy, Spain, and Egypt, where they are a staple in both local cuisine and commercial fisheries. These nations employ a mix of artisanal and industrial fishing methods, often using trawls and gillnets. The surmullet fishery is economically significant for coastal communities, though it faces challenges such as overfishing and habitat degradation, prompting efforts toward sustainable management in recent years.

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