The EMPEROR of the Gulf Sea and the Red Sea

The emperor (called shaoor or sherry in Arabic) is one of the most popular bony fish species in Saudi Arabia. They are aplenty in both the Gulf and the Red Sea. Commercially important species, they are avidly sought after by both the industrial fishing interests and the artisanal fishermen. The emperor species are available throughout the year in this region. the supply becomes plentiful during winter. the profuse supply starts roughly in December and continues up to April or so. The emperor species of fish are moderately sized. the weight of the local varieties ranges from 150 gms. to 2.5 kgs. each. They are habitually slow-swimmers. They live in small groups in coastal waters around coral reefs and rocky areas. They are carnivorous, feeding on crustaceans and small fish.

Distinguishing Features

The emperor can be easily identified with its large head, thick and fleshy lips and moderated and terminal mouth. Cheeks and upper surface of head have no scales. This fish has a single continuous dorsal fin with 10 spines and 8 or 10 branched soft rays and anal fin with 3 spines and 8 to 10 branched rays.

Color

The color changes taking place on the body of the emperor are something unusual. the ground color of the body and head is grey or brown. Often tinted pink, red yellow or blue. While alive, the color is pale except for some bright pigmented areas. When excited, the body color becomes bright. This also happens after the death of the fish.

The Family

The emperor belongs to the family Lethrinidae. The species common to both the Gulf and the Red Sea are lethrinus lentjan, miniatus, and nebulosus. Besides, the following species are found in the Red Sea: Lethrinus brobonicus, harak, mahsena, obsoletus and xanthochilus. Of these varieties, Lethrinus lentjan (Red spot emperor) are the most common. The emperor is equally good for baking or frying.

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