The Yellowlip Emperor (Lethrinus xanthochilus) is a marine species found predominantly in tropical, reef-associated environments. It is non-migratory and inhabits waters ranging from the surface to depths of 150 meters. The species can reach a maximum length of 70 cm, with a common length of approximately 59 cm, and a maximum recorded weight of 5.4 kg.
Characterized by its yellowish-grey body adorned with scattered irregular dark spots, the Yellowlip Emperor features distinctly yellowish lips, with the upper lip being more pronounced in color. It has a notable red spot at the upper base of the pectoral fins. The fins are bluish-grey with mottled patterns, with fin bases appearing lighter and the edges of the dorsal and caudal fins exhibiting a reddish hue.
This species typically forms small groups and can be found in a variety of habitats, including seagrass beds, sandy and rubble areas of coral reefs, deep channels, and lagoons. Although often solitary, it sometimes swims in small groups. Juveniles are commonly observed in seagrass beds. The diet primarily consists of crustaceans, fishes, and echinoderms.
Geographically, the Yellowlip Emperor is distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, from the 🌊 Red Sea and East Africa to the Marquesas Islands (🇵🇫 French Polynesia), extending north to the Ryukyu Islands (🇯🇵 Japan). The species is primarily harvested using handlines, traps, and trawls.
Why it's threatened
This species is intrinsically susceptible to overexploitation.
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
