Top Threadfins, Tasselfishes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Threadfins and tasselfishes, grouped under the FAO category "Threadfins, tasselfishes not elsewhere included," are primarily tropical and subtropical coastal fish found in the Indo-Pacific and West African regions. Threadfins (family Polynemidae) are recognizable by their long, filamentous pectoral fin rays, which they use to sense prey in sandy or muddy bottoms, while tasselfishes (family Polynemidae and related groups) share similar habitats. These species are important for local artisanal and commercial fisheries, valued for their firm, white flesh. The top fishing countries harvesting threadfins and tasselfishes include India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Nigeria, where they are caught using trawl nets, gillnets, and traditional gear. In these countries, the fish are consumed domestically and also sold in regional markets, supporting both livelihoods and food security in coastal communities.

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