The Emperor (Lethrinus miniatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Lethrinidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The trumpet emperor is an emperor of the family Lethrinidae from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 90 cm and has a streamlined, pale-grey body with red-orange tints around the eyes, mouth and fin bases. Adults live on coral reefs by day, occasionally foraging on sand and rubble flats between coral heads; at night they disperse to hunt. As a predator it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, sea urchins and fishes. The trumpet emperor is an important sport and food fish. Large reef specimens can locally contain ciguatera.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Emperor?
The Emperor has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Emperor live?
The Emperor lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Emperor get?
The Emperor grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Emperor dangerous to humans?
The Emperor is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Emperor edible?
Yes, the 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
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