The Safina Center

Koho salmon.Koho salmon.Photo taken by: Carl Safina

Seafood Choices


Welcome to The Safina Center's Online Seafood Guide. Enter the common or sushi name of any fish in the Search field or scroll the alphabetical by color list to identify sustainable seafood choices. Please note, our guide covers only wild-caught fish, not farm-raised or aquaculture. Enjoy!

Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Bass, Black Sea – U.S. Atlantic, Pots/Traps

Black Sea Bass are caught among rocky structures by both recreational and commercial fishers along the entire Atlantic coast. They begin life as females and become males by the time they are five years old. Black Sea Bass populations were once depleted, but because of good management have now recovered to healthy abundances. Black Sea […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Bass, Chilean Sea – Heard and McDonald Islands, Falkland Islands, Macquarie IslandA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Patagonian Toothfish, more commonly known as Chilean Sea Bass, are widely distributed in the Southern Hemisphere south of 40°S latitude. It is a long-lived species that is thought to reach 50 years in age. Sexual maturity is reached between 6-12 years and fecundity is moderate. Due to its high commercial value, Patagonian Toothfish has been […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Bass, Striped (Suzuki) – U.S., Hook and LineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Striped Bass are a moderately growing, long-lived fish found along the Atlantic Coast of the U.S. and Canada. Since the collapse of the Striped Bass fishery in the 1980s, numbers have gradually increased due to successful management, and today Striped Bass have a high abundance throughout much of their range. Striped Bass are an important […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Bluefish – U.S., HandlineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Although mostly caught by recreational fishers, commercial Bluefish fishers also bring this species to market. High population growth combined with good fisheries management has seen Bluefish abundance increase over the last decade to healthy levels. Most Bluefish are caught with gillnets, but also with bottom trawls and handlines. Fishing for Bluefish with handlines has minimal […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Capelin (Masago, Smelt Roe) – Iceland

Capelin are saltwater fish that live in cold water. Capelin’s range extends to the waters around the North Pole, called a circumpolar distribution. The Capelin fishery is one of the largest in the world. Capelin grow fast, reproducing at 3-4 years of age, then they die. Most Capelin in Iceland are caught using purse seines […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Catfish, Blue – Chesapeake Bay

Blue Catfish is a large freshwater fish species, which can weigh more than 100 lbs and live to over 20 years. Blue Catfish are native to large U.S. rivers, such as the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio, but have been introduced into other areas, including several rivers in the Chesapeake Bay region. Although no formal population […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Clam, Geoduck (Mirugai)

Geoducks are very large clams. Their range extends along the Pacific coast of the U.S. and Canada, and they are relatively abundant. They can live for 100 years and they generally reach sexual maturity in less than 10 years. They are caught using directed water jets called ‘stingers’ that loosen the mud around each clam, […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Clam, Hard – U.S. Atlantic (MA, RI, VA, NC), Rakes & Shovels

Hard Clams are found in intertidal or subtidal waters along the western Atlantic coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. Most commercial fisheries for Hard Clams occur between Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and North Carolina. Either individual states, municipalities, or a combination of both set regulations for fishing. Current abundance of this species is unknown. The rakes […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Clam, Pacific Razor

Pacific Razor Clams are found in shallow coastal waters from Alaska to central California. Pacific Razor Clams grow quickly, reaching sexual maturity around 2-4 years, and they can produce millions of eggs. They are caught in both commercial and recreational fisheries throughout their range. Fishermen dig for clams by hand, with shovels, or clam tubes. […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Clam, Soft-shell – U.S. Atlantic (ME, MA), Rakes & Shovels

Soft-Shell Clams are found in intertidal mud flats throughout much of the North Atlantic Ocean, and in the US are most abundant in Maine. They reach maturity in one year and usually live about 10 – 12 years. Little is known about the abundance or fishing levels on Soft-Shell Clams. There is a size limit […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Cobia – U.S.

Cobia is a large pelagic fish, growing up to 2 m (6.5 ft) in length, and found in tropical and warm-temperate waters worldwide, except for the eastern Pacific. They grow quickly, become sexually mature at 1-3 years of age, and may live for 16 years. Cobia are not targeted directly by commercial fishermen, instead are […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Crab, Blue (Kani) – U.S. Chesapeake Bay, Trotline

Blue Crabs mature early and carry their eggs for a short period of time, making them more resilient to fishing pressure than other crab species. In the U.S., abundance of Blue Crabs is at moderate to healthy levels. Blue Crabs are managed by individual states and management has improved in recent years to ensure the […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Crab, Snow (Kani) – Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada

Snow Crabs become sexually mature around four years and can produce hundreds of thousands of eggs. The Snow Crab population in the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada is at a healthy abundance level. Pots, which moderately impact the seafloor, are the only fishing equipment used to catch Snow Crabs. In this fishery there are […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Crab, Snow (Kani) – U.S. Alaska Eastern Bering Sea

Snow Crabs become sexually mature around four years and can produce hundreds of thousands of eggs. The Snow Crab fisheries, once classified as overfished, have now recovered, and effective management is in place. Pots, which moderately impact the seafloor, are the only fishing equipment used to catch Snow Crabs. Bycatch in the crab fishery is […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Crab, Stone – U.S.

Stone Crabs are popular in the Southeast U.S. and supplied predominantly by the Florida crab fishery. Fishers use traps or pots to catch Stone Crab, which result is minimal catches of non-target species. The fishers take one or both of the claws of the Stone Crabs and then return the crab to the water alive. […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Halibut, California (Hirame) – U.S. Pacific, HandlineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

California Halibut is a flatfish found along the Pacific coast of North America, primarily from central California to southern Baja California, Mexico. They grow slowly, may live for 30 years, and generally become sexually mature within four years. The abundance of California Halibut varies within California, being high in the central region and a lower […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Lobster, California Spiny – MexicoThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

The California Spiny Lobster is found along the western coast of North America from Monterey, California to Manzanillo, Mexico. In Mexico, Spiny Lobster are at a healthy abundance and fishing levels on this species are appropriate. Fishermen use traps to catch Spiny Lobster. There is some concern about bycatch of seabirds, particularly cormorants. There is […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Lobster, Caribbean Spiny – MexicoThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Caribbean Spiny Lobsters grow fast, are highly fecund (very fertile), and can live up to 20 years. In Mexico, the abundance and fishing mortality levels of Caribbean Spiny Lobster are uncertain. However, the fishery is well-managed. Caribbean Spiny Lobster fishermen free-dive and catch the lobsters by hand. As a result, the fishing has minimal affects […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Mackerel, Atlantic (Saba) – U.S. and Canada, Purse Seine

Atlantic Mackerel are fast swimmers found throughout the Atlantic Ocean that mature within 3 years. In U.S. and Canadian waters, the current abundance of Atlantic Mackerel is uncertain. Mackerel play an important role in the ecosystem, providing food for a variety of larger fish, such as sharks, bluefin tuna, and marine mammals. In the U.S. most […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Mackerel, King – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Overfished in the mid-1980s, King Mackerel have rebounded to a high level of abundance today. Conservative management measures now govern the hook-and-line and runaround-gillnet fisheries for King Mackerel. These surface fisheries have little bycatch compared to other fisheries and no adverse effects on habitat. Full species report here. Full Seafood Watch species report here. This fish […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Mackerel, Spanish (Sawara) – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Spanish Mackerel inhabit coastal waters along the Eastern seaboard of the U.S. and have recovered from years of overfishing to achieve high abundance today. They are important to recreational as well as commercial fishers. The surface gears fishers use to catch Spanish Mackerel have little bycatch and no adverse effects on habitat. Full species report here. […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Mahimahi – U.S. Atlantic, Pole and TrollThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Fast-growing and short-lived, Mahimahi populations can potentially withstand high fishing pressure. No formal population assessments have been done in any region, however, so their overall abundance is unknown. Mahimahi is likely susceptible to broad-scale environmental change, like changing water temperatures or currents, because of their close association with warm tropical currents. The U.S. Atlantic pole-and-line […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Mussels, Blue

Blue Mussels are found in the Arctic, North Pacific and North Atlantic Oceans, including the U.S. where they are commonly fished in Maine. Blue Mussels grow quickly, and may live for more than 10 years. They become sexually mature in about 1 year, and females can produce 10 million eggs. The number of Blue Mussels […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Oyster, Eastern – U.S. Gulf of Mexico

Eastern Oysters are found along the eastern coast of North America, from Canada to Mexico, including the Gulf of Mexico and some Caribbean islands. They grow very quickly, reach sexual maturity within several months, and can release tens of millions of eggs each year. Most of the U.S. catch of Eastern Oysters occurs in the […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Perch, Yellow – Chesapeake BayThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellow Perch is primarily a freshwater species of fish. They are found throughout much of the east and mid-west regions of the US and Canada, but also have adapted to the estuarine waters of the Chesapeake Bay, which is the focus of this report. They are fast growing and reach sexual maturity within two to […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Plaice, European – Iceland, Bottom Longline

European Plaice is a species of flatfish found throughout the coastal waters of Europe and is widely distributed in Icelandic waters. European Plaice grow at moderate rates and can live for over 20 years. The overall abundance of European Plaice in Iceland is at moderate levels, but populations have been declining over the last century […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Pollock, Atlantic – Norway, Purse Seine and Gillnets

Pollock are found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean but are more numerous and widespread in European than in American waters. They are fished in many places in their range.  Atlantic Pollock reach sexual maturity between three and eight years of age and can live for at least 20 years and grow at moderate […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Pompano – U.S. Florida

Pompano is a schooling fish (meaning that they travel in groups) found most commonly in the warm waters in and around Florida. They grow quickly, mature early, and have a short life span. Pompano on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida are analyzed separately from one another. Abundance of Pompano on the Gulf coast […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Rockfish, Black – U.S., HandlineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Black Rockfish populations off the coast of California, Washington and Oregon are healthy and abundant. Unlike other species of rockfish, Black Rockfish grow and reproduce fairly quickly – traits that help them withstand fishing pressure. Black Rockfish are the most common species caught in coastal waters. They are mostly caught by handline methods that do […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Sablefish – U.S. Alaska and British Columbia, CanadaA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Sablefish is a moderately growing, long-lived species that is found in deep waters of the Pacific Ocean, from northern Alaska to Baja California. Sablefish abundance is currently at a medium level. In Alaska and Canada, Sablefish are caught primarily by longlines and traps/pots, while bottom trawls are used more on the West Coast. The longline […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Salmon (Sake, Ikura) – AlaskaA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Salmon caught from Alaska will be one of five species: Pink, Sockeye, Chum, Coho and Chinook (King) Salmon. Abundance of salmon, particularly Pink and Sockeye, is high in Alaska due to good management and healthy habitat. The majority of salmon is caught with purse seines, followed by gillnets and troll gear. These fishing methods cause […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Salmon, Sockeye – Fraser River (early summer run), Washington, Reefnet

A small reefnet fishery for Pink and Sockeye Salmon occurs in the Fraser River around Lummi and San Juan Islands, Washington State. A reefnet is a native tribal method, that’s been adapted for commercial fishing. The fishing gear is carried between two boats and acts as artificial reefs that direct salmon into the net. This type […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Sardine, Pacific (Iwashi) – U.S. and Canada, Purse Seine

Sardines reproduce rapidly, but their populations depend on favorable ocean conditions, which have natural variability. They are important food for many fish, seabirds and marine mammals. Pacific sardines are fished with purse seines. This type of fishing gear does not make contact with the ocean floor in this fishery, and so there are low concerns […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Scallop, Weathervane – U.S. Alaska

The Weathervane Scallop is a large scallop, growing up to 25 cm in shell height, distributed from central California to Alaska. They grow fast and reach sexual maturity by 4 years. Most Weathervane Scallops are caught in the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea, where fishery management has established catch limits and regulations to control […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Sea urchin, Green – BC (Uni)

Green Sea Urchins, members of the phylum Echinodermata (“spiny skin”) are reasonably abundant along the coasts of northwest Canada. Sea Urchins are prolific breeders and can live over 20 years. They are hand-caught by divers, so bycatch is minimal with no damage to the habitat. Sea Urchins graze on kelp (a type of seaweed) and […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Sea urchin, Red – BC (Uni)

Red Sea Urchins, members of the phylum Echinodermata (“spiny skin”) are moderately abundant along the coasts of northeast Canada. Sea Urchins are prolific breeders and can live over 20 years. They are hand-caught by divers, so bycatch is minimal with no damage to the habitat. Sea Urchins graze on Kelp (a type of seaweed) and […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Seabass, White – U.S., Handline

White Seabass are found along the U.S. Pacific coast, growing over 1.5 m in length and 40 kg in weight. They grow at a moderate rate, may live for 25 years, and can produce millions of eggs each year. The U.S. commercial fishery for White Seabass occurs in Californian waters, where abundance of White Seabass […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Shrimp (Coonstripe, Northern, Sidestripe, and Spot) – Alaska

Several species of shrimp are caught in Alaska, including Coonstripe Shrimp, Northern Shrimp, Sidestripe shrimp, and Spot Shrimp or Prawns. Abundance is generally unknown but management regulations are in place to control fishing on these species. Northern and Sidestripe Shrimp are caught with trawls, which can damage animals that live on the seafloor, but management […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Shrimp, Northern (Amaebi)A fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

This species is distributed along the northern coastlines of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, including the North and Bering Seas and the Sea of Okhotsk. The Canadian fishery uses trawl nets to catch Northern Shrimp over muddy bottoms, and mandatory use of bycatch reduction devices (called Nordmore grates) has greatly reduced bycatch of depleted groundfish. […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Shrimp, Spot – British Columbia, Canada

The Spot Shrimp (or Spot Prawn) is a large shrimp, reaching over 23 cm (9 in.) in total length, found throughout the North Pacific Ocean. Spot Shrimp have a short life span, beginning life as males and transitioning to females at age 3 or 4. The British Columbia Spot Shrimp commercial fishery is the largest […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Snapper, Lane – Hook & lineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Lane Snapper are found in the Atlantic Ocean from North Carolina and Bermuda to southern Brazil, and throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean region. They reach a maximum size of 60 cm and can live for 19 years.Lane Snapper spawn offshore during summer and can produce hundreds of thousands of eggs. The abundance of […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Snapper, QueenThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Queen Snapper is a deep-water species that is becoming an increasingly important part of the US Caribbean fishery despite there being little information about their abundance. They are found from North Carolina to Brazil including the Gulf of Mexico and throughout the Caribbean. Queen Snapper grow fast, mature early and probably live for around 8 […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Squid, Argentine (Ika)

Argentine Squid constitute much of the US imported squid supply. They reproduce and die quickly, often within one year, a lifecycle that potentially buffers them from heavy fishing pressure.Changes in environmental conditions influence their population sizes from year-to-year. South American and Asian distant-water jigging vessels dominate the fishery, which mainly occurs off the coasts of […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Swordfish – Harpoon, HandlineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Swordfish are large, migratory fish found in temperate and tropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. They grow reasonably fast and mature quickly. Although harpoons and handlines are used infrequently in the commercial swordfish fisheries, these catch methods result in little to no bycatch. This makes harpoon- and handline-caught swordfish from well-managed fisheries […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Trout, Speckled – Florida and LouisianaThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Speckled Trout grow fast, reach sexual maturity after their first year, and spawn millions of eggs over several months, all of which are favorable life history characteristics. Contrary to the name, Speckled Trout are not a trout species, instead being related to drums. Speckled Trout are mostly caught in the Gulf of Mexico, where most […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Tuna, Albacore – US and Canadian Pacific, Pole & Troll (Bin’naga maguro)A fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Albacore Tuna are a migratory, schooling fish with a high reproductive rate. While Albacore in the Pacific Ocean is reasonably abundant and healthy, it’s less abundant in the North Atlantic. Pole and troll fishing for Albacore cause no habitat damage and result in a relatively small amount of bycatch. Full Seafood Watch species report here. This […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Tuna, Bigeye – U.S. Atlantic, Pole & Troll (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Bigeye Tuna are a large fish, growing to over 200 kg (440 lbs), and are found throughout the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They grow reasonably fast, can release millions of eggs each year, and can live to 10 years. Worldwide, Bigeye Tuna have a medium abundance; however, some populations are healthier than others. Bigeye […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Tuna, Skipjack – Pole & troll (Katsuo)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Skipjack Tuna represent about half of the global tuna catch and are commonly sold as ‘canned light’ or ‘chunk light’. They can spawn millions of eggs each year, grow fast, and have a high rate of population increase. Although management measures are generally weak, Skipjack Tuna are common in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Tuna, Skipjack – Unassociated Purse-seine (Katsuo)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Skipjack Tuna represent about half of the global tuna catch and are commonly sold as “canned light” or “chunk light”, with most caught using purse seines. Skipjack Tuna can spawn millions of eggs each year, grow fast, and have a high rate of population increase. Although management measures are generally weak, Skipjack Tuna are common […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Tuna, Yellowfin – U.S. Atlantic, Pacific Pole & troll (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowfin Tuna grow quickly, produce millions of eggs per spawning, and live up to 9 years. They are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with one population occurring in each of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans and two in the Pacific (eastern and western and central). Abundance of Yellowfin Tuna varies among populations, […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Walleye – Red LakesThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Walleye are a fast growing freshwater fish found throughout the northern part of North America, including the Red Lakes. Walleye populations in the Red Lakes crashed in the mid-1990’s, ending commercial fishing in 1997. However, through cooperative management and recovery plans, commercial fishing opened up again in 2006, well ahead of schedule. Walleye populations are […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Wreckfish – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Wreckfish are a slow growing, long-lived species of fish found along rocky slopes in temperate waters throughout the Atlantic Ocean and in parts of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In the U.S., most fishing for Wreckfish occurs on the Blake Plateau, off South Carolina and Georgia. The abundance of Wreckfish in U.S. waters is unknown, […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Yellowtail, California – Isla Natividad Mexico, Handline (Hiramasa)

California Yellowtail are found and caught commercially off California and Baja California, Mexico. They reach sexual maturity at an early age, but are relatively slow growing and known to form spawning aggregations. This rating is for the California Yellowtail fishery in Isla Natividad, Mexico managed by the Buzos y Pescadores de Baja California fishing cooperative. […]
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Species is relatively abundant, and fishing methods cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Yellowtail, California – U.S. California, Handline (Hiramasa)

California Yellowtail are found and caught commercially off California and Baja California, Mexico. They reach sexual maturity at an early age, but are relatively slow growing and known to form spawning aggregations Catches of California Yellowtail have fluctuated greatly over the years, tending to be greater during El Nino events when waters are warmer and […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Amberjack, Greater (Kanpachi) – U.S., Handline

Greater Amberjack are found in subtropical regions with circumglobal distribution and in the Western Atlantic, range from Nova Scotia southward through the Caribbean to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico. Greater Amberjack grow quickly, reaching sexual maturity at a young age of 1 year and have very high fecundity. Greater Amberjack exhibit schooling behavior as […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Anchovy, European – Adriatic Sea

European Anchovy are small, pelagic schooling fish (meaning they swim in groups near the surface) found throughout the eastern Atlantic Ocean and its associated seas. In the Adriatic Sea [a sea in the north-central Mediterranean], the abundance and fishing levels of European Anchovy are uncertain. The fisheries that target Anchovy also target Sardine and catch […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Bass, Black Sea – U.S. Atlantic, Hook and lineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Black Sea Bass are caught among rocky structures by both recreational and commercial fishers. They begin life as females and become males by the time they’re five years old. Black Sea Bass populations were once depleted, but because of good management have now recovered to healthy abundances. Hook and line fishing has low impacts on […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Bass, Blue Nose

Bluenose Bass is a large fish, growing to over 50 kg, found in temperate waters of New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and South America. They are particularly vulnerable to fishing pressure because they are long lived, mature late, and exhibit schooling and spawning aggregation behaviors making them easier to catch. Bluenose Bass sold in the […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Bass, Chilean Sea – South Georgia and Kerguelen IslandsA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Patagonian Toothfish, more commonly known as Chilean Sea Bass, are widely distributed in the Southern Hemisphere south of 40°S latitude. It is a long-lived species that is thought to reach 50 years in age. Sexual maturity is reached between 6-12 years and fecundity is moderate. Due to its high commercial value, Patagonian Toothfish has been […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Bass, Striped (Suzuki) – U.S., Gillnets & Pound NetsThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Striped Bass are a moderately growing, long-lived fish found along the Atlantic Coast of the U.S. and Canada. Since the collapse of the Striped Bass fishery in the 1980s, numbers have gradually increased due to successful management, and today Striped Bass have a high abundance throughout much of their range. Striped Bass are an important […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Bluefish – U.S., Bottom Trawls & GillnetsThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Although mostly caught by recreational fishers, commercial Bluefish fishers also bring this species to market. High population growth combined with good fisheries management has seen Bluefish abundance increase over the last decade to healthy levels. Most Bluefish are caught with gillnets, but also with bottom trawls and handlines. Gillnets sometimes entangle vulnerable species like marine […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Capelin (Masago, Smelt Roe) – Canada

Capelin are saltwater fish that live in cold water. Capelin’s range extends to the waters around the North Pole, called a circumpolar distribution. The Capelin fishery is one of the largest in the world. Capelin grow fast, reproducing at 3-4 years of age, then they die. Most Capelin is caught using purse seines, which causes […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Clam, Atlantic Surf (Hokkigai) – U.S.

Atlantic Surf Clams are filter feeding bivalves, found from Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada to North Carolina. Regulations have prevented overfishing and promoted abundance, however biomass estimates have continually dropped since 1997. Atlantic Surf Clams reproduce at about two years of age. They can be long-lived (~ 40 years maximum). The Surf Clam fishery is […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Clam, Ocean Quahog – U.S. Atlantic

The Ocean Quahog is one of the longest-lived and slowest-growing clams in the world, which makes them vulnerable to fishing pressure. They have an average maximum age of 114 years. However, the U.S. Atlantic Ocean Quahog population is currently at a healthy abundance level. The Ocean Quahog  fishery is a very ‘clean’ fishery with limited bycatch […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Cockles, New Zealand

New Zealand Cockles are a fast growing species of shellfish found in harbors and estuaries throughout the country. Most populations have a healthy abundance. New Zealand Cockles are mostly collected by hand picking, which causes little habitat damage and results in low levels of bycatch. In some areas, their habitat has been negatively affected by […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Cod, Atlantic – U.S. Georges Bank, Handline

Atlantic Cod are a species of groundfish that can live more than 20 years. They are found throughout the North Atlantic, and have been heavily fished for centuries driving some populations to historic low levels. In the U.S. Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank, the abundance of Atlantic Cod is low. While management efforts in […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Cod, Pacific – U.S.A fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Pacific Cod is a relatively fast growing fish that can produce several hundred thousand eggs per year. It is commercially fished in two regions, the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands, and both populations have good abundance. The main fishing methods for Pacific Cod are bottom trawl, pot, longline, and jig gear. Management […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Corvina Drum

Corvina Drum is a popular fish in South America, but little information exists on its biology, abundance or fishery. They are found from Peru to Chile and around the Galapagos Islands, and are caught by hook and line, longline and gillnets. The abundance of Corvina Drum is not known but their landings have decreased over […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Blue (Kani) – U.S., Pots

Blue Crabs mature early and carry their eggs for a short period of time, making them more resilient to fishing pressure than other crab species. In the U.S., abundance of Blue Crabs is at moderate to healthy levels. Blue Crabs are managed by individual states and management has improved in recent years to ensure the […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Blue Swimmer – Queensland, Australia

Blue Swimmer Crabs grow quickly, reach sexual maturity around age one, and live for three years. Blue Swimmer Crabs are caught in a number of countries in the Indian Ocean and Western Central Pacific. In Australia, abundance of Blue Swimmer Crab is likely at a healthy level and the fishery is well-managed. Most Blue Swimmer Crabs […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Brown – UK

Brown Crabs are found, and commercially fished, along the west coast of Europe, including the United Kingdom. They grow at moderate rates by repeatedly moulting their shell and reach sexual maturity at 4 to 7 years of age. The abundance of Brown Crabs is mostly unknown throughout much of their range. Abundance in some UK […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Dungeness – U.S. and Canada.A fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Dungeness Crabs live in shallow coastal waters from Alaska to Mexico and are named after the Dungeness Spit along the south (U.S.) shore of the Straits of Juan de Fuca. Dungeness Crabs have a short life cycle and become sexually mature after two years. The crabs typically mate in the spring, and the mating process […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Jonah

Jonah Crabs are found at depths ranging from 1 to 800 m along the Atlantic coast of North America. Population abundance, growth rate, and time to sexual maturity are unknown, but males grow larger than females and are more frequently found in deeper water. Jonah Crabs are commercially harvested in the U.S. and Canada in […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, King (Kani) – U.S.

In the U.S., there are three commercial King Crab species – Red, Blue and Golden King Crab – all caught in Alaskan waters. King Crabs typically mature around 5-7 years of age and can have a leg span of 6 feet. Most King Crab populations are at healthy levels of abundance and not considered overfished. […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Pacific Rock

Rock Crabs are found along the Pacific coast of North America from Alaska to Mexico on rocky reefs and soft substrate. They are short-lived and fast growing animals. This report evaluates the Oregon and California rock crab fisheries for three species: Red, Brown, and Yellow (California only) Rock Crabs. Abundance of Rock Crabs is unknown […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Snow (Kani) – Eastern Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Snow Crabs become sexually mature around four years and can produce hundreds of thousands of eggs. The Snow Crab population in Eastern Nova Scotia is at a healthy abundance level, while Snow Crab abundance in Newfoundland and Labrador is uncertain. Pots, which moderately impact the seafloor, are the only fishing equipment used to catch Snow […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crab, Tanner (Kani) – U.S. and Canada

Tanner Crabs become sexually mature around six years of age and can produce hundreds of thousands of eggs. The Tanner Crab fisheries, once classified as overfished, are in the process of rebuilding and effective management is in place. Pots, which moderately impact the seafloor, are the only fishing equipment used to catch  Tanner Crabs. Bycatch […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Crayfish/Crawfish – Louisiana

Crayfish (or crawfish) are found and caught worldwide in freshwater swamps, marshes and slow flowing rivers. They are short-lived and fast growing animals. This report evaluates the wild caught crayfish fishery in Louisiana’s Atchafalaya Basin using baited crayfish traps. The abundance and fishing level of crayfish in the Atchafalaya Basin is unknown, since no population […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Drum, Black- U.S. Gulf of Mexico

Black Drum is a large, shallow water species, growing up to 1.2 m (4 ft) in length and 54 kg (120 lbs) in weight. They are found in the western Atlantic from Canada to Argentina, including the Gulf of Mexico. Black Drum grows at slow to moderate rates, becomes sexually mature around 5 years and […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Drum, Red

Red Drum is large fish, growing up to 1.5 m (5 ft) in length, found in the western Atlantic, including the Gulf of Mexico, from the central U.S. to northern Mexico. They are long-lived, but become sexually mature at a relatively early age. Commercial fishing for Red Drum is prohibited in federal and most state […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Flounder, Summer – U.S. Atlantic

Summer flounder inhabit estuarine and coastal waters off the northeast east coast of the US, from the Gulf of Maine to South Carolina. Summer flounder mature early, produce many eggs and spawn often over the spawning season. The Summer Flounder population was once overfished but has now rebuilt to healthy abundance levels. In the commercial […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Flounder, Windowpane – U.S. Southern New England and Mid Atlantic

Windowpane Flounder are a fast growing species of flatfish found in the Northwest Atlantic from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Florida. Windowpane Flounder populations in southern New England and the Mid-Atlantic are healthy and are currently fished at an appropriate level. Most Windowpane Flounder are caught by bottom trawls, which damage bottom habitats and […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Flounder, Winter – U.S.

Winter Flounder is a fast growing flatfish, distributed along the Atlantic coast from Labrador to North Carolina. They are typically found in inshore bays and estuaries in the winter and deeper waters in the summer. There are three managed populations of Winter Flounder – Georges Bank, Gulf of Maine and southern New England/Mid-Atlantic Bight. The […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Flounder, Yellowtail – U.S. Southern New England and Mid AtlanticA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Yellowtail Flounder is a fast growing flatfish that produces many young and reaches a maximum size of 22 inches and 2 lbs. Yellowtail Flounder occur in the Northwest Atlantic from northern Newfoundland to the lower part of the Chesapeake Bay. The Yellowtail Flounder populations in southern New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions are currently at […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Grouper, Black – U.S. Gulf of MexicoThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

In the U.S., Black Grouper are found from Massachusetts to Texas but the majority of Black Grouper are caught in South Florida. Black Grouper can grow to 220 lbs. and change sex from female to male after 15 years. They are at a healthy abundance level. Black grouper are caught using handlines and bottom longlines, […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Grouper, Hawaiian (Hapu’upu’u) – U.S. HawaiiThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Hawaiian Grouper is a large-bodied, long-lived grouper, found only in waters off the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll. These traits make them highly vulnerable to fishing pressure. In Hawaii, Hawaiian Grouper are caught in a mixed fishery with six deep water snappers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are managed through annual […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Grouper, Red – U.S. Gulf of MexicoThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Red Grouper are found in the western Atlantic from Massachusetts to southern Brazil but are most commonly found along the west coast of Florida to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Red Grouper begin life as females and transition to males between 7 and 16 years of age. They are at a healthy abundance level in […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Haddock – CanadaThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

In Canada, Haddock abundance has improved in recent years and is showing signs of recovery. However, the population continues to mostly consist of small, slow-growing fish. Most Haddock are caught using habitat-damaging bottom trawls or bottom longlines. Both fishing methods catch several species in addition to Haddock and some of these species are depleted or at […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Haddock – IcelandThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Haddock is an important fishery in Iceland. Most Haddock are caught using habitat-damaging bottom trawls but also with bottom longlines and gillnets. Several management measures are in place to protect Haddock, but there is a limited information on the species’ abundance. As well, more information is needed about non-target catches in this fishery. Full Safina Center […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Haddock – U.S. Georges BankThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

In the U.S. Georges Bank, Haddock have recovered to have a healthy abundance level, after being depleted from many years of overfishing. Most Haddock are caught using habitat-damaging bottom trawls but also with bottom longlines and handlines. All fishing methods catch several species in addition to Haddock and some of these species are depleted or at […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Hake, SilverThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Silver Hake is a fast-growing cod-like-fish found from Newfoundland to South Carolina. Two populations occur in U.S. waters, with the northern population having medium abundance while the southern population has low abundance. The U.S. populations are managed by the New England Fishery Management Council under a small mesh multispecies management plan. The Hake fishery off […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Hake, White – U.S. Atlantic

White Hake is a bottom-dwelling fish species (or ‘groundfish’) typically found in the Atlantic Ocean from Cape Hatteras to southern Labrador and are primarily caught using three types of gear; bottom longline, bottom trawl, and bottom gillnet. White Hake in the U.S. Atlantic were once depleted, but have now recovered to a healthy abundance level. They […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Halibut, California (Hirame) – U.S. Pacific, Bottom Trawl and GillnetThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

California Halibut is a flatfish found along the Pacific coast of North America, primarily from central California to southern Baja California, Mexico. They grow slowly, may live for 30 years, and generally become sexually mature within four years. The abundance of California Halibut varies within California, being high in the central region and at a […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Halibut, Pacific (Hirame)A fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Pacific Halibut can live over 50 years, grow to 9 feet, and weigh over 500 pounds. They are found along the coastal waters of the northeast Pacific from northern California to the Gulf of Alaska and into the Bering Sea. Pacific Halibut has a healthy abundance due largely to responsible management by the United States […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Herring, Atlantic – U.S.

In the U.S. and Canada, Atlantic Herring range from the Labrador coast to South Carolina. Herring support a substantial bait industry for lobster, blue crab and tuna fisheries. They are also sold as steaks, kippers and are one of many species sold in the U.S. as canned sardines, although technically they are not considered to […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Jobfish or Snapper, Rusty (Lehi) – U.S. Hawaii

Rusty Jobfish is a moderately-long lived snapper species, found in deep tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific from Hawaii to East Africa. In Hawaii, Rusty Jobfish are caught in a mixed fishery with other deep water snappers and groupers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are managed through annual catch […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Lingcod – U.S. and CanadaA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Lingcod, which aren’t actually related to cod, are found along the west coast of North America and live on the ocean bottom. Males can be especially sedentary, establishing territories before spawning and guarding fertilized eggs until they hatch. Lingcod were once depleted, but are now considered rebuilt. Most commercially caught Lingcod are taken along with other […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Lobster, American – U.S. Georges Bank, U.S. Gulf of Maine & CanadaA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

American Lobsters are found off the Atlantic coast of North America from Newfoundland to Virginia. They can grow to a large size of 18kg (40lbs) and reach sexual maturity between 5-10 years old. American Lobsters are caught in commercial fisheries with lobster traps, a fishing method that can potentially cause some damage to bottom habitats. […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Lobster, California Spiny – U.S. CaliforniaThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

The California Spiny Lobster fishery is a small but locally important  fishery in southern California. Abundance of Spiny Lobsters off California varies with broad-scale changes in environmental conditions caused by El Nino and La Nina. Overall abundance appears stable and management of the fishery is moderately effective. Fishermen use traps to catch Spiny Lobster. There […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Lobster, Caribbean Spiny – BahamasThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Caribbean Spiny Lobsters grow fast, are highly fecund (very fertile), and can live up to 20 years. In the Bahamas, the Caribbean Spiny Lobster population is stable. Fishing occurs with traps and by diving with the use of casitas (shelters) and/or SCUBA gear. The fishing methods are highly selective, resulting in minimal catches of non-target […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Lobster, Caribbean Spiny – U.S. FloridaThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Caribbean Spiny Lobsters grow fast, are highly fecund (very fertile), and can live up to 20 years. All U.S. catches of Caribbean Spiny Lobster occur in Florida. The abundance of Caribbean Spiny Lobster in Florida is uncertain, but the fishery is well-managed. However the pots or traps used to catch them may damage the hard […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Mackerel, Atlantic (Saba) – U.S., Trawl

Atlantic Mackerel are fast swimmers found throughout the Atlantic Ocean that mature within 3 years. In U.S. waters, the current abundance of Atlantic Mackerel is uncertain. Mackerel play an important role in the ecosystem, providing food for a variety of larger fish, such as sharks, bluefin tuna, and marine mammals. In the U.S. most Atlantic Mackerel […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Mahimahi – Ecuador, LonglineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Mahimahi produce many eggs, grow quickly, and reach sexual maturity at a young age, making them resilient to fishing pressure. No formal population assessments have been completed in any region, so their current population sizes are not known. Mahimahi are caught by a variety of fishing gears including longlines. This type of fishing also captures […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Mahimahi – U.S., LonglineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Mahimahi produce many eggs, grow quickly, and reach sexual maturity at a young age, making them resilient to fishing pressure. No formal population assessments have been completed in any region, so their current population sizes are not known. Mahimahi are caught by a variety of fishing gears including longlines. This type of fishing also captures […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Mahimahi – U.S. Hawaii and Imported, Pole and TrollThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Fast-growing and short-lived, Mahimahi populations can potentially withstand high fishing pressure. No formal population assessments have been done in any region, however, so their overall abundance is unknown. Pole-and-line and troll fishing methods typically result in low levels of bycatch. However in some fisheries, there are concerns about targeted catches of tuna species that are […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Marlin, Blue – U.S. HawaiiThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Blue Marlin is a large pelagic species, found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide. This assessment is for Blue Marlin caught in the U.S. Hawaii fishery only. Blue Marlin mature early, produce many eggs, and grow fast, reaching sizes up to 450 cm and 900 kg.  The last population assessment for Blue Marlin in the Pacific […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Monkfish (Anko, Ankimo) – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Monkfish grow slowly but mature quickly and are typically found in dense aggregations (large groups) on mud and sand bottoms along the Atlantic coast of the U.S. and Canada. They were traditionally caught as bycatch and discarded until the 1980s when market demand first grew in Asia and Europe, and later in North America. Monkfish […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Mullet, Red – Northeast Atlantic, Gillnet Caught

Red Mullet are found in the Northeast Atlantic from the North Sea to the northwestern coast of Africa, as well in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. They are short lived, with a maximum life span of 10 years, and reach sexual maturity at 1-2 years of age. In the Northeast Atlantic, Red Mullet are primarily […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Octopus, Common (Tako) – SpainThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Common Octopus are wide-ranging and have short lifespans. While management and monitoring of Octopus fisheries are weak in many countries, in Spain the fisheries are under better management and the population is stable. In Spain, Octopus are caught using bottom trawls and pots. Bottom trawls can cause significant habitat damage and catch unwanted wildlife. The […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Opah – U.S. HawaiiThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Opah is a pelagic species of fish (swims near the surface) found throughout all tropical and temperate oceans. It can grow to six and a half feet in length, approximately 550 pounds in weight, and may live for 11 years. Opah in the Pacific Ocean is probably at a medium level of abundance, however no […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Oyster, Eastern – U.S. Atlantic

Eastern Oysters are found along the eastern coast of North America, from Canada to Mexico, including the Gulf of Mexico and some Caribbean islands. They grow very quickly, reach sexual maturity within several months, and can release tens of millions of eggs each year. Population sizes of Eastern Oysters vary by region, being severely depleted […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Plaice, American – U.S.

American Plaice are flatfish that live on both sides of the Atlantic. They grow slowly, reach sexual maturity between three to seven years of age and can live to be 30. U.S. American Plaice populations are rebuilding and current fishing levels are appropriate. Most American Plaice are caught with bottom trawls, which damage seafloor habitat […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Pollock, Atlantic – U.S. and Canada

Pollock are found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean but are more numerous and widespread in European than in American waters. They are fished in many places in their range.  Atlantic Pollock reach sexual maturity between three and eight years of age and can live for at least 20 years and grow at moderate […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Pollock, Atlantic – Iceland, Gillnets

Pollock are found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean but are more numerous and widespread in European than in American waters. They are fished in many places in their range.  Atlantic Pollock reach sexual maturity between three and eight years of age and can live for at least 20 years and grow at moderate […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Pollock, Atlantic – Norway, Danish Seine and Trawl

Pollock are found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean but are more numerous and widespread in European than in American waters. They are fished in many places in their range.  Atlantic Pollock reach sexual maturity between three and eight years of age and can live for at least 20 years and grow at moderate […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Pollock, Walleye/Alaska (Surimi, Kanikama)A fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Walleye Pollock, the largest single species fishery in the United States, is caught in two regions in Alaska: the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands and the Gulf of Alaska. Walleye Pollock mature early in life and have a high growth rate. Walleye Pollock abundance has declined in recent years in the Bering Sea due to a low […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Rockfish – U.S. and Canadian Pacific, HandlineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

There are over 60 species of Rockfish found along the U.S. and Canadian Pacific coasts, and many are important in commercial and recreational fisheries. Most Rockfish are long-lived, late to mature, and slow growing, which makes them especially vulnerable to fishing pressure. Some Rockfish species are overfished and the status of many others is unknown because […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Rockfish, Blackgill – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Blackgill Rockfish grow slowly, live for many years and reach sexual maturity at a late age. Although Blackgill Rockfish can be found from Mexico to Canada, most live and are caught in southern and central California waters, where they are considered to be moderately abundant. The most common fishing gears used to capture Blackgill Rockfish […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sablefish – U.S. California, Oregon, and WashingtonA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org. These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Sablefish is a moderately growing, long-lived species that is found in deep waters of the Pacific Ocean, from northern Alaska to Baja California. Sablefish abundance is currently at a medium level. Sablefish are primarily caught with bottom trawls in California Oregon, and Washington. The bottom trawls can cause significant damage to the seafloor and may […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Salmon (Sake, Ikura) – U.S. California, Oregon, and Washington, Gillnet, Purse Seine and Troll

Five species of Salmon – Chum, Chinook (AKA King Salmon), Coho, Pink, and Sockeye – are found in the waters off Washington, Oregon and California. All five species spawn in freshwater, spend part of their life in the ocean and then return to freshwater to spawn. Sexual maturity is reached between two to seven years […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Salmon, Chum – British Columbia, CanadaA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Chum Salmon is an anadromous fish, meaning it migrates from freshwaters to ocean waters to feed for several years and then back to freshwaters to reproduce. They are found in the North Pacific Ocean, with many distinct reproductive populations occurring along the coasts of North America and Asia. They reach sexual maturity between 3-5 years […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Salmon, Coho (Sake, Ikura) – British Columbia, Canada

Coho Salmon are a fast-growing fish found throughout the North Pacific, and in British Columbia, Canada they are found in most coastal streams and rivers. After spending 18 months at sea, adult Coho Salmon return to the stream in which they hatched to spawn and subsequently die. Survival of juvenile Coho Salmon in the ocean […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Salmon, King (Sake, Ikura) – BC

Chinook Salmon, also known as King Salmon, are the largest of the Pacific Salmon species, reaching weights of approximately 132 pounds and becoming sexually mature around four years of age. Found throughout the North Pacific, Chinook Salmon complete large migrations of up to 1000 miles to return to their birth river, where they spawn and […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Salmon, Sockeye and Pink – Fraser River, Washington, Reefnet

A small reefnet fishery for Pink and Sockeye Salmon occurs in the Fraser River around Lummi and San Juan Islands, Washington State. A reefnet is a native tribal method, that’s been adapted for commercial fishing. The fishing gear is carried between two boats and acts as artificial reefs that direct salmon into the net. This type […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sardine, Atlantic (Iwashi) – East Atlantic (excluding the Mediterranean Sea)

Sardines are a pelagic, schooling fish (meaning they swim in groups near the surface) which grow fast and become sexually mature within two years. Sardines are an important commercial species in the eastern Atlantic, off the European and African coasts. Total annual catch is approximately 1 million tons, with many populations having low levels of abundance […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scallop, Bay

Bay Scallops are found in shallow estuaries and bays along the US Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts. They typically live for 2 years, and become sexually mature at 1 year. They are commercially fished in Massachusetts, New York and North Carolina, and are primarily caught using small dredges. These dredges are destructive to seafloor […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scallop, Mexican Bay

Mexican Bay Scallops are distributed from Baja California, Mexico to Northern Peru, including both sides of the Baja California Peninsula. They grow quickly, reach sexual maturity around 6 months of age and produce many eggs. After heavy fishing pressure that caused numbers to drop considerably, Mexican Bay Scallops are thought to be at healthy levels […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scallop, Peruvian Calico

The Peruvian Calico Scallop is a fast growing and short-lived marine bivalve, found in shallow waters. Peruvian Calico Scallop abundance and landings are highly variable and correlated to El Nino Southern Oscillations cycles (ENSO). In southern Peru, biomass and landings increase greatly during ENSO events and then subsequently decline to low levels, whereas in northern […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scallop, Queen

Queen Scallops are a fast growing, large marine bivalve found in the northeastern Atlantic from Norway to the Canary Islands, including the North, Irish, and Mediterranean Seas. The major fisheries for Queen Scallop are conducted by the United Kingdom, France, the Faroe Islands and the Isle of Man. In the Irish Sea around the Isle […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scallop, Scottish King

The Scottish Scallop is a large marine bivalve found in the northeastern Atlantic from Norway to Spain. Scottish Scallops lie partly buried in the sediment on the seafloor, and are relatively fast growing and reach sexual maturity at an early age. They are commercially important throughout their range, but the majority of landings are taken […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scallop, Sea (Hotate) – U.S. and Canadian Atlantic

Sea Scallops are typically found on sand and gravel bottoms. They grow quickly and mature at a young age, traits that make them resilient to fishing pressure In the U.S. Sea Scallops were once overfished but have since recovered, thanks to effective management. In Canada, Sea Scallops are also at a healthy abundance. Fishers use bottom […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Scup

Scup are primarily found in the northwest Atlantic from Cape Cod, Massachusetts to South Carolina. Scup have large migrations, moving from coastal waters in summer to offshore waters in winter. Scup reach sexual maturity between two to three years of age and spawn once a year between May and August. Fisheries management for Scup is […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Seabass, White – U.S., Gillnet

White Seabass are found along the U.S. Pacific coast, growing over 1.5 m in length and 40 kg in weight. They grow at a moderate rate, may live for 25 years, and can produce millions of eggs each year. The U.S. commercial fishery for White Seabass occurs in Californian waters, where abundance of White Seabass […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Shrimp – U.S. Southeast (except Louisiana), Bottom Trawl

Several  species of shrimp are commercially caught in the U.S. South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including White Shrimp, Brown Shrimp, Pink Shrimp, Rock Shrimp, Royal Red Shrimp, and Seabob Shrimp. All Shrimp species are short-lived and produce many young. The abundances of Shrimp vary according to environmental conditions. Shrimp trawling damages benthic (seafloor) habitat […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Shrimp, Pink – U.S. California and Washington, British Columbia Canada

This coldwater species is found from California to Alaska and changes sex from male to female after its first year of life. Little is known about the population of pink shrimp in the U.S., while in British Columbia, Canada the population is healthy. These shrimp are caught with trawls, which can cause damage to the […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Shrimp, Ridgeback – California

Ridgeback Shrimp are found in the Pacific Ocean along the coast of southern California from Monterey Bay to Baja California, Mexico. They live for a maximum of 5 years and reach sexual maturity by two years of age. In California, both the catches and the abundance of Ridgeback Shrimp fluctuate greatly from year to year. […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Shrimp, Spot – U.S. Washington & California

The Spot Shrimp (or Spot Prawn) is large shrimp, reaching over 23 cm (9 in.) in total length, found throughout the North Pacific Ocean. Spot Shrimp have a short life span, beginning life as males and transitioning to females at age 3 or 4. In the small commercial Spot Shrimp fisheries in Washington and California […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sickle Pomfret – U.S. Hawaii

Sickle Pomfret are found in tropical waters throughout the Pacific and Indian Oceans but little information on their life history or abundance is available. The information that does exist, suggests Sickle Pomfret grow quickly during the first year of life and live for 8 years. While not targeted specifically, Sickle Pomfret are caught in pelagic […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Smelt

Smelt is a short-lived, rapidly maturing species of fish commercially harvested in Canadian estuaries of the northwestern Atlantic. Unfortunately this fishery is not properly assessed and abundance estimates are unreliable. Each year, Smelt migrate from the coastal brackish and saltwater habitat to freshwater streams to spawn in late April and May. There is no commercial fishing […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Deep-Water Red (Ehu) – U.S. Hawaii

The Deep-water Red Snapper (Ehu) is a large-bodied, moderately long-lived snapper, found in deep tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific from Hawaii to East Africa. In Hawaii, Deep-water Red Snapper are caught in a mixed fishery with other deep water snappers and groupers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Emperor Red – SeychellesThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Emperor Red Snapper are found on coral reefs throughout the Indo-west Pacific region, with an important artisanal fishery in the Seychelles. They can live for 40 years, and grow at moderate rates reaching 116 cm in length and 33 kg in weight. In the Seychelles, they are over-exploited and there is no management plan in […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Gray or Jobfish, Green – U.S. Hawaii

The Gray Snapper (or Green Jobfish) is a shallow-water snapper found throughout the western Pacific and Indian Ocean, often found on coral reefs. They gather in large numbers in the summer to reproduce, or spawn, a behavior which make them easy targets to fisherman, increasing their vulnerability to overfishing. The largest numbers of Gray Snapper are […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Hog – Traps & Spears

Hog Snapper are found in tropical and subtropical reefs in the western Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. They are particularly vulnerable to fishing pressure because they are slow growers, relatively long-lived, and change sex from females to males as they age. Commercial fishing for Hog Snapper occurs off Florida, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Kalekale – U.S. Hawaii

Kalekale is a large-bodied, moderately long-lived snapper, found in deep tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific from Hawaii to East Africa. In Hawaii, Kalekale are caught in a mixed fishery with other deep water snappers and groupers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are managed through annual catch limits and closed […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Mangrove

Mangrove Snappers are a shallow species, common to coral reefs and seagrass beds, that have slow to moderate growth rates, reaching 30 inches in length and living up to 25 years of age. They are found in the western Atlantic from Florida to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, with most caught in […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Mutton – USThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Mutton Snapper are most commonly found in the tropical waters of the Caribbean, Florida and Gulf of Mexico. They can live to 40 years of age, have moderate growth rates, and become sexually mature after three years. Mutton Snapper were overfished for many years, but their abundance has increased and today it is at a […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, New Zealand (Tai) – Longline

Snapper are found in subtropical regions of the western Pacific Ocean including New Zealand, Australia, China and Japan. In New Zealand, Snapper are a commercially important fishery. Due to prudent fisheries management, most Snapper populations in New Zealand are stable or recovering from their previously overfished status. Juvenile Snapper inhabit muddy estuaries, while adults mostly […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Oblique-banded (Gindai) – U.S. Hawaii

Oblique-banded Snapper is a large-bodied, moderately long-lived snapper,  found in deep tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific from Hawaii to East Africa. In Hawaii, Oblique-banded Snapper are caught in a mixed fishery with other deep water snappers and groupers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are managed through annual catch limits […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Pink (Opakapaka) – U.S. Hawaii

Opakapaka is a large-bodied, long-lived snapper, found in deep waters throughout the Indo-Pacific from East Africa to Hawaii. In Hawaii, Opakapaka are caught in a mixed fishery with other deep water snappers and groupers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are managed through annual catch limits and closed fishing areas. While the Deep […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Red – U.S. Gulf of MexicoThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Red Snapper are found in the western Atlantic Ocean from North Carolina to northern South America, the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Red Snapper are found around both natural and artificial structures like corals reefs and oil rigs. They grow slowly, reach sexual maturity around three years of age, and may live for over […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Ruby (Onaga) – U.S. Hawaii

Onaga is a large-bodied, moderately long-lived snapper,  found in deep tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific from Hawaii to East Africa. In Hawaii, Onaga are caught in a mixed fishery with other deep water snappers and groupers, which collectively are called the Hawaii Deep 7 Bottomfish complex. These species are managed through annual catch limits and closed […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Silk – U.S. (including U.S. Caribbean)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Silk Snapper is a deepwater fish whose range extends from the Gulf of Mexico, Carolinas, and Bermuda to northern South America. They mature quickly but have moderate growth rates and can live for over 30 years. Silk Snapper have a medium abundance, but many areas have not been properly surveyed. They are commonly caught using […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Vermilion – USThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Vermilion Snapper are found from North Carolina to Brazil and throughout the Gulf of Mexico. They reach sexual maturity at a young age and produce many offspring, spawning multiple times per year. Vermilion Snapper abundance in the Gulf of Mexico is uncertain. Vermilion Snapper abundance in the South Atlantic is below the target level, but […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Yellowtail – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowtail Snapper are found in the Atlantic from New England to southeastern Brazil, although they are most common in tropical regions like the Bahamas, Florida and the Caribbean.  They are a fast growing species that reaches sexual maturity at a young age and can produce many eggs. The abundance of Yellowtail Snapper is considered healthy […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Snapper, Yellowtail- BrazilThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowtail Snapper are found in the Atlantic Ocean from New England to southeastern Brazil. In Brazil, they grow at moderate rates, reach sexual maturity by 3 years and can produce many eggs. Yellowtail Snapper are considered over-exploited in Brazil, and management is mostly lacking in protecting and rebuilding their numbers. Hook-and-lines are a common fishing […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sole, Dover – Atlantic Ocean

Dover Sole are a fast growing species of bottom fish, reaching a size of 70 cm and living up to 40 years. They are found from the North Sea south to northwest Africa and into the Mediterranean Sea.Dover Sole have a medium abundance overall, though population size varies between regions. They are caught by a […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sole, Dover – Pacific Ocean

Dover Sole is a long-lived flatfish caught by bottom trawling along the Pacific coast of the US and Canada. Dover Sole are found from the Bering Sea and eastern Aleutian Islands to central Baja California and are widespread throughout the Gulf of Alaska. The abundance of Dover Sole varies between regions, but is healthy overall. […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sole, Lemon – UK

Lemon Sole is a medium sized flatfish found along the northern European coast on coarse gravelly and rocky bottoms at depths ranging from 40 to 200 m. They mature relatively quickly and live up to nine years. Lemon Sole appear to be at medium levels of abundance, although information about population size is somewhat limited. […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sole, Petrale

Petrale Sole are a commercially important Pacific groundfish species targeted by U.S. trawl vessels. Petrale Sole grow at a moderate rate and can live for over 30 years. They are currently at low abundance but there is a rebuilding plan that has set low catch limits to increase numbers. Petrale Sole are caught by bottom […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sole, Rock – PacificA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Southern and Northern Rock Soles are commercially important Pacific groundfish in Alaskan waters. Rock Soles grow at a moderate rate and can live up to 30 years. Thanks to successful management measures, Rock Sole are at high levels of abundance throughout their range. Bottom trawling for Rock Soles takes place over sand/mud habitats, which are […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sole, Yellowfin – PacificA fishery targeting this species has been certified as sustainable and well managed to the Marine Stewardship Council's environmental standard. Learn more at http://www.msc.org.

Yellowfin Sole is a commercially important Pacific groundfish targeted by U.S. and Canadian trawl vessels. Yellowfin Sole grows at a slow rate and can live for 31 years. Thanks to successful management measures, they are at high levels of abundance, but changes in oceanic conditions may cause the population to decline in the future. Bottom […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Squid, European & Veined (Ika)

European and Veined Squid are found in the northeast Atlantic Ocean, with Veined Squid more common in northern areas and European Squid most abundant in southern areas. Both species grow fast and become sexually mature within one year. Spawning is considered intermittent and terminal for both species, meaning a squid lays several batches of eggs […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Squid, Longfin (Ika)

Overfished in the late 1990s, Longfin Squid are now abundant in U.S. Atlantic waters thanks to their fast growth and short lifespan, which enable them to withstand moderate fishing pressure. Historically, the domestic fishery for Longfin Squid was small, but the exclusion of foreign squid boats from U.S. waters and increases in international demand for […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Squid, Market (Ika) (calamari) – California, Purse Seine

Market Squid are short-lived, but they are vulnerable to large-scale changes in the environment driven by El Nino Southern Oscillation events. Accurate estimates of Market Squid abundance elude fisheries biologists and managers, which makes management of the population difficult. Market Squid off the California coast are caught with purse seines. Normally this method causes limited […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Squid, Shortfin

Shortfin Squid are found on the offshore continental shelf and slope waters of the northwestern Atlantic, from Florida to Labrador. They grow quickly and reproduce at a young age, which helps their resistance to fishing pressure. They appear to be at a healthy level of abundance, but it varies from year to year due their […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Sturgeon, White – U.S. Lower Columbia RiverThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

White Sturgeon live along the U.S. west coast and primarily use the Sacramento and Lower Columbia Rivers for reproduction. White Sturgeon are long-lived, do not reproduce until late in life, and only reproduce periodically, making them highly vulnerable to overfishing. Sturgeon are highly valued for their eggs or caviar. White Sturgeon in the Lower Columbia River […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Swordfish (Shutome) – U.S. LonglineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Swordfish are a large, migratory fish found in temperate and tropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. They grow reasonably fast and mature quickly, typically within six years. Longlines are the most common gear for catching swordfish worldwide. This method results in the bycatch of threatened or endangered sea turtles, sharks and seabirds […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Swordfish – California, GillnetThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Swordfish are a large, migratory fish found in temperate and tropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. They grow reasonably fast and mature quickly, typically within six years. Off California, Swordfish is also caught with drift gillnets. The bycatch of marine mammals and other protected species is minimized in these fisheries by management […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tilefish, GoldenThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

The Golden Tilefish is a long-lived and slow growing deep-water species that lives near the bottom of the sea. It is found along the Atlantic coast of North America and throughout the Gulf of Mexico. The population is divided into three regions for management purposes: the mid-Atlantic, South Atlantic, and the Gulf of Mexico. For […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Triggerfish, Grey and Queen

Grey and Queen Triggerfish are found on rocky and coral reefs throughout much of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. They grow at moderate to fast rates, reach sexual maturity at an early age, and can release millions of eggs. Grey Triggerfish is commercially caught in the Gulf of Mexico […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Trout, Steelhead

Sea-going members of the Rainbow Trout species, Steelhead return to natal hatching grounds to spawn, with a small percentage surviving to reproduce more than once. Wild Steelhead populations have declined significantly due to overfishing and habitat loss. Commercial fishing for Steelhead in the U.S. has been restricted to Native American tribes for decades. Hatcheries supply […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Albacore – Hawaii, Longline (Bin’naga maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Albacore Tuna are a highly migratory fish found throughout the world’s temperate and tropical seas. While Albacore in the Pacific Ocean is reasonably abundant and healthy, it’s less abundant in the North Atlantic. Longlines are the most common method used to catch Albacore Tuna. They result in large quantities of bycatch, including threatened or endangered species […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Albacore – South Atlantic, Pole & TrollThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Albacore Tuna are a migratory, schooling fish with a high reproductive rate. While Albacore in the Pacific Ocean is reasonably abundant and healthy, it’s less abundant in the North Atlantic. Pole and troll fishing for Albacore cause no habitat damage and result in a relatively small amount of bycatch. Full Seafood Watch species report here. This […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Bigeye – Pole & troll (Maguro) (except U.S. Atlantic)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Bigeye Tuna are a large fish, growing to over 200 kg (440 lbs), and are found throughout the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They grow reasonably fast, can release millions of eggs each year, and can live to 10 years. Worldwide, Bigeye Tuna have a medium abundance; however, some populations are healthier than others. Bigeye […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Bigeye – U.S. Atlantic, Longline (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Bigeye Tuna grow reasonably fast and can live for 10 years, reaching a weight exceeding 200 kg (440 lbs). Female Bigeye Tuna are very fecund (fertile), and can release millions of eggs each year. Bigeye Tuna are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with populations in the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Bigeye […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Bigeye – Unassociated Purse-seine (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Bigeye Tuna can grow to over 440 lbs. and live for 10 years. Female Bigeye Tuna are very fertile (otherwise known as “highly fecund”), releasing millions of eggs each year. Bigeye Tuna are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with populations in the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Bigeye Tuna have a medium […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Yellowfin – U.S. Longline (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowfin Tuna reach sexual maturity at a younger age (about three years) than most other tunas and grow quickly. They produce millions of eggs per spawning, and can live up to nine years. Yellowfin Tuna are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with one population occurring in each of the Indian and Atlantic […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Yellowfin – Unassociated Purse-seine (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowfin Tuna grow rapidly and produce millions of eggs per spawning, qualities that potentially enable them to withstand high fishing pressure. Yellowfin Tuna are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with one population occurring in each of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans and two in the Pacific (eastern and western and central). Abundance […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Tuna, Yellowfin – Worldwide (Except U.S. Atlantic and Pacific), Troll & Pole (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowfin Tuna grow quickly, produce millions of eggs per spawning, and live up to 9 years. They are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with one population occurring in each of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans and two in the Pacific (eastern and western and central). Abundance of Yellowfin Tuna varies among populations, […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Turbot/Halibut, Greenland (Hirame) – U.S. and Canadian PacificThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Greenland Turbot (also called Greenland Halibut) are found in the northern regions of the North Pacific and North Atlantic Oceans. In the North Pacific, Greenland Turbot are mostly found in western Alaska, within the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI). Greenland Turbot grow slowly, may live for more than 30 years, and reach sexual maturity […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Turbot/Halibut, Greenland (Hirame) – Western GreenlandThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Greenland Turbot is a slow growing flatfish that is found in temperate and arctic waters throughout the northern hemisphere. In western Greenland, Greenland Turbot are caught in both offshore and inshore waters. The abundance of Greenland Turbot in the offshore population, which is shared with Canada, is uncertain, but appears to be have remained stable […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Wahoo – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Wahoo are a fast growing, highly fecund species of fish found worldwide throughout tropical and warm temperate seas. Wahoo are not commercially targeted but are caught in longline and troll fisheries targeting other species such as tuna and swordfish. There is a lack of information on the abundance of this species. These fishing gears have […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Walleye – Great LakesThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Walleye is a freshwater species of fish found throughout the northern part of North America. In the Great Lakes, Walleye have been the target of recreational and commercial fisheries for hundreds of years, and today most Walleye are commercially caught from the Canadian side of Lake Erie. Walleye grow quickly and reach sexual maturity at […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Whitefish – Great Lakes

Whitefish is a fast growing freshwater fish that can reach a length of three feet, a weight of roughly 42 pounds, and live for 50 years.  Whitefish are found throughout the Great Lakes and are the main commercial fish species there. The abundance of Whitefish has varied over time, and is currently at a medium […]
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Some problems exist with this species' status or catch methods, or information is insufficient for evaluating.Yellowtail, California – U.S. California, Gillnet (Hiramasa)

California Yellowtail are found and caught commercially off California and Baja California, Mexico. They reach sexual maturity at an early age, but are relatively slow growing and known to form spawning aggregations Catches of California Yellowtail have fluctuated greatly over the years, tending to be greater during El Nino events when waters are warmer and […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Anchovy, European – Mediterranean and Black Seas (excluding the Adriatic Sea)

European Anchovy are small, pelagic schooling fish (meaning they swim in groups near the surface) found throughout the eastern Atlantic Ocean and its associated seas. In the Mediterranean and Black Seas, the abundance of European Anchovy relative to abundance conservation goals is unknown, but fishing levels on Anchovy are above sustainable levels in several areas. […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Barramundi – Indonesia

Barramundi is a fast growing species of fish found in tropical and sub-tropical waters of the Western and Central Pacific and Indian Oceans. They can live in freshwater, brackish and marine habitats. They begin life as males and after several years of spawning transition to females for the remainder of their life. Abundance of Barramundi is […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Bass, Black Sea – U.S. Atlantic, Bottom Trawl

Black Sea Bass are caught among rocky structures by both recreational and commercial fishers along the entire Atlantic coast. They begin life as females and become males by the time they are five years old. Black Sea Bass populations are currently at healthy abundances. However, fishing with bottom trawls causes extensive damage to important ocean […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Bass, Chilean Sea – Crozet Islands, Prince Edward and Marion Islands, ChileThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Patagonian Toothfish, more commonly known as Chilean Sea Bass, are widely distributed in the Southern Hemisphere south of 40°S latitude. It is a long-lived species that is thought to reach 50 years in age. Sexual maturity is reached between 6-12 years and fecundity is moderate. Due to its high commercial value, Patagonian Toothfish has been […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Cod, Atlantic – Canada, Bottom Trawl

Decades of overfishing have driven Atlantic Cod populations in the U.S. and Canada to historic low levels. While some populations have shown signs of recovery in recent years, the overall recovery of Atlantic Cod has been variable and unstable. While management efforts in Canada have improved in recent years, recovery is still expected to be […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Cod, Atlantic – U.S. (except Georges Bank handline fishery)

Atlantic Cod are a species of groundfish that can live more than 20 years. They are found throughout the North Atlantic, and have been heavily fished for centuries driving some populations to historic low levels. In the U.S. Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank, the abundance of Atlantic Cod is low. While management efforts in […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Conch, Queen

Queen Conch is a large marine gastropod found throughout the Caribbean. Many features of the Queen Conch’s life history are still unresolved, but it is thought to mature around 4-5 years and live between 20-30 years. Since Queen Conch forms large aggregations in shallow coastal waters, where it can easily be seen and collected by […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Crab, Blue and Red Swimmer – East and SouthEast Asia

Swimmer Crabs grow quickly, reach sexual maturity around age one, and live for three years. They are caught in a number of countries in the Indian Ocean and Western Central Pacific. In China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines there is very limited management in place for Swimmer Crabs and abundance levels are uncertain. Each […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Dab, Common – Iceland

Common Dab is a small species of flatfish that grows fast and becomes sexually mature within four years. Dab is found on shallow, sandy bottoms throughout the Northeast Atlantic, and in Iceland they are found all around the country. Common Dab is mostly caught with Danish seines in Icelandic waters, which cause moderate damage to […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Eel, American (Unagi)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

American Eels are late-bloomers, in terms of reaching sexual maturity and reproduction. They may not reproduce until they are 20 years old, and this makes them inherently vulnerable to fishing pressure because they cannot readily create new generations to replace the eels that are caught each year. Using eel pots in coastal waters and nets […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Flounder, Windowpane – U.S. Georges Bank/Gulf of Maine

Windowpane Flounder are a fast growing species of flatfish found in the Northwest Atlantic from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Florida. The abundance of Windowpane Flounder in the Georges Bank and Gulf of Maine is low and they are currently fished at too high a level. Most Windowpane Flounder are caught with bottom trawls, which […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Flounder, Witch – U.S.

Witch Flounder are a species of flatfish found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. They grow slower and live longer than most other flounder species. The abundance of Witch Flounder in the U.S. is low and they are currently fished at too high a level. Bottom trawls are used to catch Witch Flounder, which […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Flounder, Yellowtail – U.S. Georges Bank and Gulf of Maine

Yellowtail Flounder is a fast growing flatfish that produces many young and reaches a maximum size of 22 inches and 2 lbs. Yellowtail Flounder occur in the Northwest Atlantic from northern Newfoundland to the lower part of the Chesapeake Bay. Yellowtail Flounder populations in Georges Bank and the Gulf of Maine are depleted and are […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Grouper, Gag – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

In U.S. waters, Gag Grouper are found in the South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico regions, being moderately abundant along the Atlantic coast but overfished in the Gulf. Similar to other grouper species, Gag Grouper are protogynous hermaphrodites beginning their lives as females and becoming males as they grow larger. Females typically mature after three […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Grouper, Snowy – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Snowy Grouper are found in deep-water rocky habitats, from North Carolina to Brazil including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. They are a long lived, slow growing species that changes sex (from females to males) as they grow, making them extremely vulnerable to fishing pressure. In the U.S. South Atlantic, the abundance of Snowy […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Grouper, YellowedgeThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Yellowedge Grouper are found and commercially fished in the western Atlantic from North Carolina to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. They are a long-lived, slow growing species that changes sex (from females to males) as they grow; these characteristics make them extremely vulnerable to fishing pressure. Abundance of Yellowedge Grouper is […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Haddock – U.S. Gulf of MaineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

In the U.S. Gulf of Maine, Haddock are currently recovering from a depleted state, but continue to be fished at too high of a level. As well, most Haddock are caught using habitat-damaging bottom trawls but also with bottom longlines and handlines. All fishing methods catch several species in addition to Haddock and some of these […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Halibut, Atlantic (Hirame) – U.S.These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Atlantic Halibut can live for 50 years, grow to over eight feet in length, and weigh over 660 pounds. They are found on both sides of the North Atlantic Ocean as well as some parts of the Arctic Ocean. Atlantic Halibut were once extremely abundant along the northeast U.S. and Canadian coastlines, but populations have […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Lobster, American – U.S. Southern New EnglandThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

American Lobsters are found off the Atlantic coast of North America from Newfoundland to Virginia. They can grow to a large size of 18kg (40lbs) and reach sexual maturity between 5-10 years old. American Lobsters are caught in commercial fisheries with lobster traps, a fishing method that can potentially cause some damage to bottom habitats. […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Lobster, Caribbean Spiny – Belize, Brazil, Honduras & NicaraguaThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Caribbean Spiny Lobsters grow fast, are highly fecund (very fertile), and can live up to 20 years. In Belize, Brazil, Hondura, and Nicaragua, fishing for Caribbean Spiny Lobsters occurs with traps and by diving with the use of casitas (shelters) and/or SCUBA gear. The fishing methods are highly selective, resulting in minimal catches of non-target […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Mahimahi – Costa Rica, Guatemala and Peru, LonglineThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Mahimahi produce many eggs, grow quickly, and reach sexual maturity at a young age, making them resilient to fishing pressure. No formal population assessments have been completed in any region, so their current population sizes are not known. Mahimahi are caught by a variety of fishing gears including longlines. This type of fishing also captures […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Marlin, Blue – Imported PacificThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Blue Marlin is a large pelagic species, found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide. Blue Marlin mature early, produce many eggs, and grow fast, reaching sizes up to 450 cm and 900 kg. Blue Marlin are caught throughout the Pacific Ocean. The last population assessment for Blue Marlin in the Pacific indicated that abundance levels […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Marlin, StripedThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Striped Marlin is an open ocean species found throughout much of the world’s temperate and tropical oceans. Striped Marlin in the Pacific are being fished faster than the population can reproduce and the species has dramatically declined. This species is primarily captured with pelagic longlines, which result in minimal habitat damage, but do catch some […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Octopus (Tako) – PhilippinesThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Octopus grows fast and produces many young – traits that help it withstand fishing pressure. Several species of Octopus are commercially fished in the Philippines; the main species is Day Octopus. In the Philippines, Octopus is found in coral reefs and caught using a variety of gear, including  jigs, hook/gaff, spears and baited traps. There is […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Octopus, Common (Tako) – Mauritania, Morocco and VietnamThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Common Octopus are wide-ranging and have short lifespans. Some populations are declining due to heavy fishing pressure. Most Octopuses are caught using bottom trawls, causing habitat damage and bycatch of unwanted wildlife. There is limited management and monitoring of the Octopus fisheries in these countries. Full Seafood Watch species report here. This fish may have moderately […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Opah – ImportedThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Opah is a pelagic species of fish (swims near the surface) found throughout all tropical and temperate oceans. It can grow to six and a half feet in length, approximately 550 pounds in weight, and may live for 11 years. Opah in the Pacific Ocean is probably at a medium level of abundance, however no […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Orange RoughyThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Orange Roughy are a long-lived, late maturing species with relatively low fecundity (fertility). They can live to be more than 100 years old and don’t mature until they’re in their late 20’s. After being heavily fished over the last 30 years, abundance is less than 30% of the estimated virgin biomass for most populations. Caught […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Oreos

Smooth and Black Oreos are slow to mature and are extremely long-lived fishes, qualities which make them vulnerable to overfishing. Most reported catches occur in New Zealand, where they are in low levels of abundance in some areas. They aggregate around seamounts, and the bottom trawls used to fish for Oreos cause extensive damage to […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Pollock, Atlantic – Iceland, Danish Seine and Trawl

Pollock are found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean but are more numerous and widespread in European than in American waters. They are fished in many places in their range.  Atlantic Pollock reach sexual maturity between three and eight years of age and can live for at least 20 years and grow at moderate […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Rockfish – U.S. and Canadian Pacific, Bottom TrawlThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

There are over 60 species of Rockfish found along the U.S. and Canadian Pacific coasts, and many are important in commercial and recreational fisheries. Most Rockfish are long-lived, late to mature, and slow growing, which makes them especially vulnerable to fishing pressure. Some Rockfish species are overfished and the status of many others is unknown because […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Sardine, Atlantic (Iwashi) – Mediterranean Sea

Atlantic sardine are small, pelagic schooling fish (meaning they swim in groups near the surface) found throughout the eastern Atlantic Ocean and its associated seas. In the Mediterranean Sea, the abundance level of Atlantic sardine is uncertain in many areas, but some populations are depleted. Fishing levels on sardine are above sustainable levels in several […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Shad, American – U.S. Atlantic

American Shad are naturally found from Florida to Canada, but have also been introduced into U.S. West Coast waters. American Shad hatch in freshwater, spend part of their life in the ocean, and then return to freshwater rivers to spawn. Historically they spawned in almost every accessible river and tributary on the Atlantic coast, but […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Shrimp – Imported (Ebi)

The bottom trawls used to catch most imported shrimp damage benthic (seafloor) habitat and result in large amounts of bycatch, including commercially important fish species and endangered sea turtles. Tropical shrimp trawl fisheries lack adequate management and enforcement. Imported shrimp species are short-lived and highly fecund (fertile), although information on their abundance is lacking. Full […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Shrimp – U.S. Southeast, Skimmer Trawl & Louisiana, Bottom Trawl

Several  species of shrimp are commercially caught in the U.S. South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including White Shrimp, Brown Shrimp, Pink Shrimp, Rock Shrimp, Royal Red Shrimp, and Seabob Shrimp. All Shrimp species are short-lived and produce many young. The abundances of Shrimp vary according to environmental conditions. Shrimp trawling damages benthic (seafloor) habitat […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Shrimp, Mexican White (White, Blue, and Brown)

Mexican White Shrimp is a name given to a group of three related shrimp species: White, Blue and Brown shrimp, found in the eastern Pacific Ocean from Mexico to Peru. All three species grow and sexually mature quickly. Juvenile shrimp generally live in estuaries, lagoons and coastal waters, before migrating offshore to reproduce and complete […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. SkateThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

The seven species of skate – Winter, Barndoor, Thorny, Little, Rosette, Clearnose, and Smooth Skate – are managed both individually and collectively in the northwestern Atlantic Ocean. Skates are typically long-lived, mature slowly, and have low fecundity (fertility), making them vulnerable to fishing pressure. Skates are most commonly caught in bottom otter trawls, which damage […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Snapper, Red – U.S. South AtlanticThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Red Snapper are found in the western Atlantic Ocean from North Carolina to northern South America, the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Red Snapper are found around both natural and artificial structures like corals reefs and oil rigs. They grow slowly, reach sexual maturity around three years of age, and may live for over […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Sturgeon and Paddlefish – U.S. Mississippi RiverThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Wild Sturgeon and Paddlefish in the U.S. have suffered from overfishing and habitat degradation. These species are long-lived, do not reproduce until late in life, and only reproduce periodically, so recovery of these species will be slow. These species are highly valued for their eggs or caviar. Sturgeon and Paddlefish in the Mississippi River and its […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Swordfish – Imported, Longline and GillnetThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Swordfish are a large, migratory fish found in temperate and tropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. They grow reasonably fast and mature quickly, typically within six years. Longlines are the most common gear for catching swordfish worldwide, but in some areas gillnets are also used. These fishing methods result in the bycatch […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tautog

Tautog is a slow growing, long-lived fish found from Nova Scotia, Canada to Georgia. It is highly dependent on finding suitable habitat that provides protection from predators and a good food supply. Most Tautog is caught in recreational fisheries, but some are commercially caught, often by bottom trawling which can cause substantial damage to the […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tuna, Albacore – Longline (besides U.S. Hawaii)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Albacore Tuna are a highly migratory fish found throughout the world’s temperate and tropical seas. While Albacore in the Pacific Ocean is reasonably abundant and healthy, it’s less abundant in the North Atlantic. Longlines are the most common method used to catch Albacore Tuna. They result in large quantities of bycatch, including threatened or endangered species […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tuna, Bigeye – Longline, except U.S. Atlantic (Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Bigeye Tuna grow reasonably fast and can live for 10 years, reaching a weight exceeding 200 kg (440 lbs). Female Bigeye Tuna are very fecund (fertile), and can release millions of eggs each year. Bigeye Tuna are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with populations in the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Bigeye […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tuna, Bluefin (Hon Maguro)These fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Bluefin Tuna is the largest tuna species and one of the largest fish in our oceans, growing to 1543 pounds and over 13 feet in length. Bluefin tuna is caught in the Pacific, Atlantic, Southern Oceans and Mediterranean and are severely depleted worldwide. All populations are being caught at rates faster than they can reproduce. […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tuna, Yellowfin – Grenada Longline

Yellowfin Tuna are found and caught in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide with a variety of fishing gears. This report evaluates Yellowfin Tuna caught in the Grenada longline fishery in the Caribbean region of the Atlantic Ocean. Yellowfin Tuna in the Atlantic Ocean is at a low abundance and it is uncertain whether current fishing […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tuna, Yellowfin – Indonesia Longline

Yellowfin Tuna are found and caught in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide with a variety of fishing gears. This report evaluates Yellowfin Tuna caught in the Indonesia longline fishery in the Western Central Pacific Ocean. Yellowfin Tuna in the Western Central Pacific are at a healthy abundance level and are currently being fished at the […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Tuna, Yellowfin – Trinidad and Tobago Longline

Yellowfin Tuna are found and caught in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide with a variety of fishing gears. This report evaluates Yellowfin Tuna caught in the Trinidad and Tobago longline fishery in the Caribbean region of the Atlantic Ocean. Yellowfin Tuna in the Atlantic Ocean are at a low abundance and it is uncertain whether […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Turbot – Northeast Atlantic

Turbot is a flatfish species widely distributed in the eastern Atlantic Ocean from Iceland and Norway to northern Africa, including the Baltic, North, Mediterranean and Black Seas. Turbot grow at medium rates and may live up to 25 years. The majority of Turbot is caught in the North Sea by bottom trawlers and to a […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Turbot/Halibut, Greenland (Hirame) – Eastern GreenlandThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Greenland Turbot is a slow growing flatfish that is found in temperate and arctic waters throughout the northern hemisphere, including Greenland. The Greenland Turbot population off eastern Greenland is shared with Iceland and the Faroe Islands and management advice is provided by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES).  This population has […]
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Species has a combination of problems such as overfishing, high bycatch, and poor management. Weakfish – U.S. AtlanticThese fish contain levels of mercury or PCBs that may pose a health risk to adults and children.

Weakfish are a species of fast growing fish found from Massachusetts to Florida, although they are most commonly found between New York and North Carolina.They are highly dependent on estuaries for food, shelter and spawning. Weakfish populations are depleted throughout their range and it is thought that increased predation and other natural factors, and not […]
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