Top Green Spiny Lobster Fishing Countries

The green spiny lobster (Panulirus argus), also known as the Caribbean spiny lobster, is a highly valued crustacean found throughout the western Atlantic, particularly in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and along the southeastern coast of the United States. Characterized by its long, spiny antennae and greenish-brown coloration, this species supports a significant commercial fishery due to its high demand in international seafood markets. The top green spiny lobster fishing countries are the Bahamas, Cuba, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Brazil, with the Bahamas and Cuba often vying for the largest annual catches. These nations rely on a combination of artisanal and industrial fishing fleets, and the lobster fishery is a vital economic resource, providing livelihoods for thousands of coastal communities. Sustainable management practices, such as seasonal closures and size limits, are increasingly important in these countries to combat overfishing and ensure the long-term viability of green spiny lobster populations.

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