Wattsia mossambica (Smith, 1957)
Mozambique large-eye bream
Wattsia mossambica
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Lethrinidae (Emperors or scavengers), subfamily: Monotaxinae
Max. size:  55 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 100 - 200 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific: tropical, known only from a few scattered localities.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 10-10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 10-10. The inner surface of the pectoral fin axil without scales. Overall color is silvery-gray with yellowish suffusion; scale margins are narrowly brownish. Indistinct dark blotches or bars are sometimes apparent on the body. The lips are whitish to yellow. The fins are yellow, faint brown spotting may be present on soft dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. A narrow blackish bar runs across the base of the pectoral fin.
Biology:  Inhabits the outer edge of the continental shelf. Feeds on bottom-living invertebrates and small fishes. Caught mainly with bottom longlines and bottom trawls (Ref. 9775).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 09 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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