Fin's Fish Guide
The Ambon emperor (Lethrinus amboinensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Lethrinidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Oceania: Papua New Guinea, Admiralty Is., Philippines, Tokelau, Tuvalu, Wallis Futuna and others
Description
The Ambon emperor is an emperor (Lethrinidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey body with a pointed head, thick lips and strong molars. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it searches over sand and reef bottoms for molluscs, crustaceans, sea urchins and small fish, which it crushes. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ambon emperor?
The Ambon emperor has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Ambon emperor live?
The Ambon emperor lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Papua New Guinea, Admiralty Is., Philippines, Tokelau, Tuvalu, Wallis Futuna and others
How big does the Ambon emperor get?
The Ambon emperor grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Ambon emperor dangerous to humans?
No, the Ambon emperor is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Ambon emperor edible?
Yes, the Ambon emperor is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lethrinus
More from the family Lethrinidae
Want the complete picture on the Ambon emperor?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ambon emperor is one of 12,519 species in the app.