Top Caribbean Spiny Lobster Fishing Countries

The Caribbean spiny lobster (*Panulirus argus*) is a highly valued crustacean found throughout the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and parts of the western Atlantic. Unlike true lobsters, it lacks large claws and is recognized by its long, spiny antennae and mottled shell. The species supports one of the most important commercial fisheries in the region, with the Bahamas, Cuba, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic ranking among the top harvesting countries. These nations rely heavily on spiny lobster exports for economic stability, with the catch primarily destined for the United States and European markets. The fishery is mostly conducted using traps, free diving, and sometimes scuba diving, but concerns over overfishing and habitat degradation have prompted some countries to implement management measures such as closed seasons and size limits to ensure sustainability.

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