The Top Banded Spiny Lobster (*Panulirus homarus*), also known as the scalloped spiny lobster, is a commercially valuable crustacean found in the shallow tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Distinguished by its banded legs and spiny carapace, this species is highly prized for its tender, flavorful meat. The primary countries involved in harvesting the Top Banded Spiny Lobster include India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries play a significant role in local economies. These countries export much of their catch to international markets, particularly in East Asia and Europe, where demand for spiny lobster is high. Sustainable management is increasingly important in these regions, as overfishing and habitat degradation threaten lobster populations and the livelihoods dependent on this valuable fishery.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.