The Sky emperor (Lethrinus mahsena) is a saltwater fish of the family Lethrinidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Description
The sky emperor (mahsena) is a robust emperor of the family Lethrinidae reaching about 65 cm. The deep, silvery-grey body has a pointed snout, thick lips and a red inner lining of the gill covers; the strong molar teeth are adapted to crushing shellfish and sea urchins. The species lives on coral reefs, seagrass beds and sand flats of the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea; it does not occur in European waters. It is long-lived (over 25 years) and a protogynous hermaphrodite, starting as a female and later becoming male. The mahsena is an important food and sport fish in the Indian Ocean, but through heavy fishing its populations have declined by more than 60% and it is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sky emperor?
The Sky emperor has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Sky emperor live?
The Sky emperor lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Sky emperor get?
The Sky emperor grows to a maximum of about 65 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Sky emperor dangerous to humans?
No, the Sky emperor is harmless to humans.
Is the Sky emperor edible?
Yes, the Sky emperor is a highly prized food fish.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Lethrinus
More from the family Lethrinidae
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