The Zebra Catfish (Pseudolithoxus spp. and Hypancistrus zebra), renowned for its striking black-and-white striped pattern, is a small, freshwater species native to the fast-flowing rivers of the Amazon Basin, particularly the Rio Xingu in Brazil. This species is highly prized in the ornamental aquarium trade rather than for food, making Brazil the leading country in its capture and export. The fishing industry surrounding the Zebra Catfish is primarily artisanal and regulated, as overharvesting and habitat threats have led to conservation concerns and export restrictions in Brazil. Other South American countries, such as Colombia and Peru, also participate in the ornamental fish trade, but Brazil remains the principal source due to the fish’s endemic range. Strict regulations and international demand have shaped the industry, with conservation efforts aiming to balance economic benefits for local fishers and the preservation of this unique catfish species.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombia | 185 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.