Top Metanephrops Lobsters Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Metanephrops lobsters, commonly known as scampi or "Norway lobsters" (though distinct from Nephrops norvegicus), are a group of deepwater clawed lobsters prized for their delicate, sweet flesh. These crustaceans inhabit muddy or sandy seabeds at depths of 100 to 700 meters, primarily in the Indo-Pacific and southwestern Pacific regions. The top fishing countries for Metanephrops species not elsewhere included (NEI) are Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia, with smaller contributions from countries like Vietnam and the Philippines. Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have well-established, regulated fisheries targeting species such as Metanephrops challengeri (New Zealand scampi) and Metanephrops australiensis (Australian scampi). These fisheries employ specialized trawling methods and are important both for domestic consumption and for export to high-value international markets, especially in Asia and Europe. The industry is relatively small compared to other lobster fisheries but is notable for its focus on sustainability and high product quality.

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