Top Glove Sponge Fishing Countries

The "glove sponge" (Spongia graminea), a species of marine sponge found primarily in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, is highly valued for its soft, durable texture, making it a popular choice for natural bath and cleaning sponges. The glove sponge fishing industry has a long history, with countries such as Greece, Turkey, the Bahamas, and Cuba being prominent harvesters. In the Caribbean, especially the Bahamas and Cuba, local divers traditionally collect these sponges by hand, a practice that supports small-scale fisheries and local economies. In the Mediterranean, Greece and Turkey have also been notable for their sponge fishing heritage, although overfishing, disease, and environmental changes have impacted stocks in recent decades. Today, sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized to ensure the continued availability of glove sponges, balancing economic benefits with conservation needs.

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