The St. Paul rock lobster (Jasus paulensis) is a spiny lobster species native to the remote islands of the South Atlantic and southern Indian Ocean, notably around Saint Paul and Amsterdam Islands, Tristan da Cunha, and the surrounding territories. Characterized by their long, spiny antennae and lack of large claws, these lobsters are highly valued for their sweet, firm meat. The primary countries involved in the commercial harvesting of St. Paul rock lobster are France, due to its administration of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (including Saint Paul and Amsterdam Islands), and the United Kingdom, through its overseas territory of Tristan da Cunha. The fisheries are tightly regulated to preserve stocks, with quotas, closed seasons, and sustainable management practices, making the St. Paul rock lobster industry a vital economic activity for these remote territories while also serving niche gourmet markets worldwide.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | French Southern Territories | 355 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.