Lobster has long been considered one of the ocean’s finest treasures, and Vietnam is home to several prized spiny lobster species. Among them, the painted spiny lobster (Panulirus ornatus) and the scalloped spiny lobster (Panulirus homarus) stand out for their distinct appearances, habitats, and culinary values. While both are rich in nutrition and highly versatile in cooking, each species offers unique characteristics that appeal to seafood lovers and gourmet chefs worldwide.

I. Characteristics of Spiny Lobster Species and Scalloped Spiny Lobster

1. Painted Spiny Lobster (Panulirus ornatus)

The painted spiny lobster, also known as the ornate spiny lobster, has a shell with a blend of sea-blue and green. Its head and spines feature striking orange spots. Along the back, each abdominal segment usually has a broad black or dark-brown transverse band, accompanied by one or two pairs of cream-white spots symmetrically positioned on either side.
This species varies greatly in size, with an average weight of 1.5 – 1.8 kg and a body length of 30 – 50 cm. Painted spiny lobsters are mainly distributed in the coastal waters of Central Vietnam, particularly in Khánh Hòa, Phú Yên, Bình Định, and Ninh Thuận. Outside of Vietnam, they are also found across the Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and northern Australia.

Painted Spiny Lobster (Panulirus ornatus)

2. Scalloped Spiny Lobster (Panulirus homarus)

The scalloped spiny lobster, scientifically known as Panulirus homarus, is easily recognized by its deep-green shell with white scalloped bands along the back. Its body has a greenish hue, while its long antennae are tinted with a distinctive pink, creating a striking appearance. Its legs are relatively slender, grayish-green, and marked with longitudinal stripes.
This species is generally smaller than many other spiny lobsters. In Vietnam, it is most abundant in the south-central coastal provinces such as Nha Trang, Phú Yên, and Bình Định. Globally, it is widely distributed across the Indian Ocean, ranging from the eastern coast of Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Oman, and Iran to Southeast Asia.

Scalloped Spiny Lobster (Panulirus homarus)

II. Nutritional Value Painted Spiny Lobster and Scalloped Spiny Lobster 

1. Painted Spiny Lobster 

Painted Spiny Lobster has firm, white meat with a naturally sweet flavor and is highly nutritious. Its flesh is rich in high-quality protein, low in fat, and contains beneficial fatty acids that support heart health. It is also an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to strong bones, a healthy immune system, and improved circulation.

2. Scalloped Spiny Lobster 

The scalloped spiny lobster  is similarly rich in digestible protein and low in fat, making it well-suited for a healthy diet. It also provides important minerals that help strengthen the body, enhance immunity, and sustain energy. With its firm, sweet, and flavorful meat, this species is both delicious and nourishing, suitable for a wide range of cooking methods, from steaming and grilling to hotpot and sashimi.

III. Culinary Uses Painted Spiny Lobster and Scalloped Spiny Lobster

Culinary Uses Painted Spiny Lobster and Scalloped Spiny Lobster

1. Painted Spiny Lobster 

Renowned as one of the finest lobsters, the painted spiny lobster is prized for its firm, sweet, and aromatic flesh. Thanks to its large size and thick meat, it is best prepared in ways that preserve its natural flavor and juiciness. Common methods include steaming or boiling whole lobsters, grilling over charcoal, or baking with cheese for a rich taste. It is also featured in premium dishes such as soups or stir-fried glass noodles with lobster. Its firm texture makes it especially suitable for refined, restaurant-style recipes.

2. Scalloped Spiny Lobster 

Smaller in size yet equally flavorful, the scalloped spiny lobster is highly favored for sashimi, hotpot, or lobster porridge, as its meat has a light, delicate sweetness. It can also be prepared by grilling with garlic butter, stir-frying with salt, or steaming, all of which preserve its distinct natural flavor. With its versatility, the scalloped spiny lobster adapts well to both Asian and Western culinary styles.

IV. Meksea – The leading seafood distributor in Vietnam 

At Meksea, lobster is more than just premium seafood – it is a symbol of freshness, quality, and culinary excellence. From the majestic painted spiny lobster (Panulirus ornatus) to the delicate scalloped spiny lobster (Panulirus homarus), we bring the finest catches from Vietnam’s pristine coastal waters to global markets. With firm, sweet, and nutritious meat, our lobsters are trusted by restaurants, hotels, and importers worldwide for their exceptional taste and consistency.

Shrimp and Added-value products area highlighted by our live Value-Added counter

>>>Meksea’s Lobster

Don’t hesitate to contact us to explore more Vietnam’s products!

Mr. Hoang Duy – Commercial Director

Mobile/WhatsApp/Wechat: + 84 903 872 469

Email: hoang@mekseaconnection.com

Joy Nguyen  (Meksea Team)

If you found this topic interesting, please click the Like button below, so we may continue to expand this topic. Leave a comment with your thoughts for the author team to discuss