Top Toothed Whales Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

"Top Toothed Whales Not Elsewhere Included" refers to a category of cetaceans—such as beaked whales, pilot whales, and other lesser-known toothed whales—excluding more commonly recognized species like sperm whales, dolphins, and porpoises. These whales are generally medium-sized, predatory marine mammals with conical teeth, inhabiting deep and offshore waters worldwide. The commercial hunting of these species is limited and often controversial, with the primary fishing countries being Japan and, to a lesser extent, Norway and certain Caribbean nations. In Japan, small cetacean whaling persists for cultural and subsistence reasons, particularly in coastal towns like Taiji, where these whales are hunted for meat and sometimes for live capture. The overall catch volumes are relatively small compared to other marine species, and international regulations—such as those from the International Whaling Commission—have led to significant restrictions and scrutiny of these practices. The industry remains contentious due to conservation concerns and debates over animal welfare.

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