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Redthroat Emperor

Redthroat Emperor

Lethrinus Miniatus

Quick Facts

Scientific name Lethrinus Miniatus

Other names Island Snapper, Lipper, Nannygai, Sweetlip Emperor, Tricky Snapper, Trumpet Emperor, Trumpeter, Yellowmouthed Perch, Yellowmouthed Snapper

Size Up to 90 cm (35 in)

Weight Up to 9.6 kg (21.2 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters, coral reefs, reef slopes, edges & drop offs

Depth Range

Interesting Info

Redthroat Emperor, also known as the Sweetlip Emperor are a schooling fish commonly found in smaller groups. Juveniles can be found inshore in both brackish and marine waters. Adults are commonly found over coral reefs.
They are a popular sports fish but have on occasion been known for ciguatoxin (fish poisoning).
Adults generally stay near or over coral reefs during the day and then move over sandy areas at night to forage for food.
Redthroat Emperor are carnivores, feeding on smaller fish, molluscs and crustaceans, with crabs and sea urchins being its favourite.
Estimated lifespan is around 22 years with the fish maturing between 3 & 4 years of age.
They are hermaphrodites, changing sex from female to male as they get older.
The main predators of the Redthroat Emperor include sharks and larger predatory fish.

Species Interaction

Commercial & Recreational Fishing

Redthroat Emperors are a popularly targeted fish by anglers as they have a strong fight and are a great table fish. As the Redthroat Emperor is a good eating fish, it does have economic relevance and is commercially fished.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Lethrinidae

Genus: Lethrinus

Species: Lethrinus miniatus

Conservation Status

Based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)Redthroat Emperor are categorised as “Data Deficient” as there is not enough information on the species for proper assessment.
However, as its a fast growing species there are limited concerns of over fishing.