Top White Grouper Fishing Countries

The white grouper (Epinephelus aeneus) is a prized demersal fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, recognized for its robust body, mottled brownish coloration, and high-quality flesh. This species inhabits rocky and sandy bottoms, often at depths ranging from 20 to 200 meters. The top white grouper fishing countries are concentrated around the Mediterranean basin and the West African coast, with Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, and Spain being particularly prominent due to their extensive coastal fisheries and established markets for grouper. In these countries, white grouper is harvested by both artisanal and commercial fleets using trawls, longlines, and handlines. The species is highly valued in local cuisine and export markets, making it an economically significant catch. However, heavy fishing pressure, especially in the Mediterranean, has led to concerns over stock depletion, prompting some countries to implement management measures to ensure sustainable harvests.

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