The Natal spiny lobster (*Panulirus homarus*), also known as the scalloped spiny lobster, is a commercially valuable crustacean found in the warm, shallow waters of the western Indian Ocean, particularly along the coasts of East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian subcontinent. This species is characterized by its robust, spiny exoskeleton and distinctive scalloped antennae. The top countries engaged in harvesting the Natal spiny lobster are South Africa, Madagascar, India, and Oman, where both artisanal and commercial fisheries target this species for local consumption and export, primarily to Asian markets. The fishing industry for *P. homarus* is significant for coastal communities, providing livelihoods and supporting export economies, but it also faces challenges such as overfishing and habitat degradation, prompting the implementation of management measures like size limits, seasonal closures, and marine protected areas in several regions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 32 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.