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(Click for large pic. 34Kb)
The beautiful Yellow Sweetlip is one of our largest Emperors, reaching a length of at least 860 mm (34 inches); it is quite common in offshore reef waters from Gladstone north, but occasional specimens are taken as far south as the reefs off Noosa Heads and off Moreton Island (S. Qld).
It is readily recognised by its colour pattern the body is generally olive golden, and takes its spangled appearance from the presence of a pale blue spot located centrally on each scale, these forming longitudinal streaks along the flanks. A pattern of conspicuous sky blue bands, radiating from the eye, overlies the head and cheeks. The margin to the gill covers is bright orange, the fins pale orange or yellow with blue speckling and blotches; in fact, the pectoral is brilliantly edged with bright blue along the leading ray. The upper lip and inside the mouth are bright orange yellow.
The Yellow Sweetlip is generally taken by hand lining. especially at night. on the flooding tide in narrow channels between coral outcrops, and is a powerful and determined fighter. Excellent daylight angling is to be had on the sandy bottoms of lagoons of such coral cays as Heron Island (Capricorn Group). using cut baits; it is surprising how few fish in these locations attempt to snag the line among the abundant coral growths. In flavour it is equal to our best table fishes.
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