This work reviews the data available on John Dory. The species is mainly known in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and in the Pacific, over a vast geographic distribution. The John Dory lives at depth greater than 400 metres. Although not very abundant, the John Dory is widely known and its flesh is excellent. It is a product with high market value. John Dory landings worldwide in 2000, reached 9,074 tonnes. Of this, 1,155 tonnes were landed in France. The John Dory fulfils the criteria favourable for aquaculture. Its farming could meet the demand of some producers' local or regional markets. However, it will be necessary to acquire biological and zootechnical data to determine its intensive farming potential.This summary is intended for a wide readership of scientists, students or industrialists, as well as for anyone seeking comprehensive information on this species.