"Top True Tunas Not Elsewhere Included" refers to tuna species that are not specifically categorized as skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye, or albacore in global fisheries data—typically including species like the southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii), longtail tuna (Thunnus tonggol), and other less common Thunnus species. These tunas are prized for their high-quality meat, especially in sashimi markets, and are primarily harvested using purse seine, longline, and pole-and-line fishing methods. The leading countries involved in the capture of these tunas include Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, and Spain, each with significant distant-water and coastal fleets. Indonesia is notable for its artisanal and small-scale fisheries, while Japan and Australia focus on southern bluefin tuna, often using advanced technologies and strict quotas to manage stocks. These fisheries are economically important, supporting both local consumption and lucrative export markets, but they also face challenges related to overfishing and the need for international cooperation to ensure sustainability.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Benin | 305 |
2 | Spain | 3 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.