Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic emperor (Lethrinus atlanticus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lethrinidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy, gravel and seagrass bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The Atlantic emperor is a bream-like fish of the family Lethrinidae (emperors) reaching about 50 cm and is the only member of the family on the Atlantic coast. The sturdy, brownish-yellow body has a pointed snout, thick lips and molar-like teeth at the back of the mouth with which the fish crushes shellfish, crabs and sea urchins. Like many emperors it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and later become males. The species lives over sand, gravel and seagrass bottoms of the continental shelf along the West African coast. With its tasty flesh it is a valued commercial and sport fish of the region.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic emperor?
The Atlantic emperor has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bream-like fish with a pointed snout, thick lips and molar-like rear teeth for crushing shellfish; the only emperor of the Atlantic coast.
Where does the Atlantic emperor live?
The Atlantic emperor lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy, gravel and seagrass bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Atlantic emperor get?
The Atlantic emperor grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Atlantic emperor dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic emperor is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic emperor edible?
Yes, the Atlantic emperor is a highly prized food fish.
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Same genus Lethrinus
More from the family Lethrinidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic emperor?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic emperor is one of 12,519 species in the app.