The Yellowlip Emperor (Lethrinus xanthochilus) is a demersal marine fish found primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, recognized for its robust body, yellow-tinged lips, and value as both a food and game fish. This species inhabits coral reefs and sandy bottoms, where it is targeted by commercial, artisanal, and recreational fisheries. The top countries harvesting Yellowlip Emperor include Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and Australia, where the fish is commonly caught using handlines, traps, and nets. In these regions, the Yellowlip Emperor contributes significantly to local diets and economies, especially in small-scale coastal fisheries, while also being exported to regional seafood markets. Sustainable management is increasingly important, as overfishing and habitat degradation threaten stocks in some areas.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saudi Arabia | 31 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.