Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese emperor (Lethrinus haematopterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lethrinidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The Chinese emperor is an emperor (Lethrinidae) from the northwestern Pacific. The species has an elongate, silvery body with a pointed snout and can change colour quickly with mood and when hunting. It lives near the bottom in coastal waters over sand, mud and reef bottoms. As a predator it cracks hard-shelled prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins with its jaws, supplemented with small fishes. It is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese emperor?
The Chinese emperor has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Can change colour rapidly; crushes hard-shelled prey with strong jaws.
Where does the Chinese emperor live?
The Chinese emperor lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Pacific; coastal waters.
How big does the Chinese emperor get?
The Chinese emperor grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Chinese emperor dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese emperor is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinese emperor edible?
Yes, the Chinese 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 Chinese emperor?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese emperor is one of 12,519 species in the app.