The Southern Rock Lobster (Jasus edwardsii), renowned for its spiny shell and prized sweet, firm flesh, is a highly valued crustacean found primarily in the temperate coastal waters of the Southern Hemisphere. The top countries harvesting this species are Australia and New Zealand, whose well-managed fisheries are among the world’s most productive and sustainable for rock lobster. In Australia, the Southern Rock Lobster fishery is concentrated in the states of South Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania, while New Zealand’s industry operates along its southern and eastern coasts. Both nations export the majority of their catch, particularly to Asian markets where the lobsters command premium prices. The fisheries are tightly regulated with quotas, size limits, and seasonal closures to ensure long-term sustainability, making the Southern Rock Lobster industry a significant contributor to the economies of these countries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 2,946 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.