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Phylum Chordata > Subphylum Vertebrate > fishes > Family Lethrinidae
Pink ear emperor
Lethrinus lentjan

Family Lethrinidae
updated Sep 2020
Where seen? This large fish that looks like it has a bleeding wound near the gills is sometimes seen on some of our shores, near seagrasses. It is said that adults are found in deeper waters, but younger fishes hang about in loose groups in mangroves and among seagrasses.

Features: To about 50cm, those seen on the intertidal about 15cm. Like other members of the Family Lethrinidae, it has large scales in a 'distinctive pattern' -- a kind of diamond pattern. There is a red margin around its gill covers and a red mark at the base of the pectoral fins. As well as red edges to dorsal fin and tail fin.

Changi, Apr 07

Changi, Jun 07
What does it eat? It eats mainly crustaceans and snails and clams, but also eats considerable quantities of echinoderms, worms and fishes.

Human uses: It is valued as seafood.

Pink ear emperors on Singapore shores
On wildsingapore flickr

Other sightings on Singapore shores


Changi, Oct 20
Photo shared by Marcus Ng on facebook.

Changi Lost Coast, Jun 22
Photo shared by Loh Kok Sheng on facebook.


East Coast Park, Aug 18
Photo shared by Loh Kok Sheng on facebook.

Labrador, Nov 18
Photo shared by Richard Kuah on facebook.


St John's Island, Apr 16
Photo shared by Loh Kok Sheng on his blog.
 

Links
References
  • Allen, Gerry, 2000. Marine Fishes of South-East Asia: A Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Periplus Editions. 292 pp.
  • Kuiter, Rudie H. 2002. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia: A Comprehensive Reference for Divers & Fishermen New Holland Publishers. 434pp.
  • Lieske, Ewald and Robert Myers. 2001. Coral Reef Fishes of the World Periplus Editions. 400pp.
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