Tigerperches, belonging to the family Terapontidae, are medium-sized, predatory fish found primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, including brackish and freshwater environments. Characterized by their robust bodies and distinctive vertical stripes, tigerperches are valued for their firm, white flesh and are commonly caught for local consumption. The main countries harvesting tigerperches—often grouped as "not elsewhere included" (nei) in fisheries statistics due to their diverse species and similar appearances—include Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. These nations utilize a mix of artisanal and small-scale commercial fishing methods, with catches typically destined for domestic markets rather than large-scale export. While not a globally dominant fishery, tigerperch fishing supports local economies and food security in Southeast Asia, reflecting the region's rich aquatic biodiversity and reliance on inland and coastal fisheries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indonesia | 15,741 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.