Lethrinus xanthochilus

The yellow-lipped emperor is a very occasional host of reefs and sandy areas, usually isolated or in small groups.

It is recognizable by its moderately elongated snout, shorter than for L. olivaceus, longer than for L. nebulosus, and its yellow upper lip. It also displays a bright coloured mark at the base of the pectoral fin, usually red.

Like L. olivaceus, it can change color and pattern quickly, typically from a uniform color to a mottled pattern.

I saw it only in the Moluccas on coral reefs, solitary fish and exceptionally, a small group of 5 to 6 individuals (in the picture three are visible). At some seasons it can be pretty frequent, especially if you start looking for it and an distinguish it from the longnose emperor.

A rare but tasty catch, as it feeds mainly on crabs and shrimps. According to Sean, the tastiest of all emperors.