How to Identify Pink ear emperor

To identify Pink ear emperor (Lethrinus lentjan), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Body color is typically silvery-grey to brownish-grey, often with irregular darker blotches or bars that can be indistinct. The most distinctive feature is a prominent red or pink blotch on the upper margin of the operculum (gill cover). Fins are generally translucent or dusky, sometimes with reddish tints. The snout is often yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent red/pink blotch on the upper operculum, Pointed snout, Scales on the cheek are absent or very few, Usually 10-12 transverse dark bars on the body (often indistinct), A dark blotch often present on the lateral line below the anterior part of the dorsal fin

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10 spines and 9-10 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Opercular blotch

   Look for the characteristic red or pink blotch on the upper part of the gill cover. This is the most reliable distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Snout shape

   The snout is relatively pointed compared to some other Lethrinus species.

3. 3

   Cheek scales

   The absence or very few scales on the cheek is a key diagnostic feature for this species within the genus Lethrinus.

4. 4

   Body coloration

   While variable, the overall silvery-grey to brownish-grey body with potential indistinct bars and a yellowish snout can aid identification.

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