The Painted Spiny Lobster (Panulirus versicolor), recognized for its striking coloration with blue, green, and yellow markings, is a highly valued crustacean found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. This species inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas, making it a target for artisanal and commercial fisheries due to its demand in international seafood markets. The top countries harvesting the Painted Spiny Lobster include Indonesia, India, the Philippines, and Australia—nations with extensive coastlines and rich reef ecosystems. These countries employ a mix of traditional diving, traps, and net techniques to catch the lobsters, supporting both local livelihoods and export industries. Sustainable management is increasingly important in these regions, as overfishing and habitat degradation threaten wild populations of this prized lobster.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.