Emperors are a diverse group of snapper-like relatives that are most closely related to breams.   Only one species is present in Hawaiian waters.  The Mu feeds upon gastropods and crabs, crushing them with human-like molariform teeth.  It is an excellent food fish and skittish around divers.  Colors vary according to disposition and local variants occur throughout the Indo-Pacific.  

Juvenile, Three Tables, Oahu, 35 feet

Hanauma Bay, Oahu, 40 feet

Open water color, Molokini Back Wall, 60 feet

South Pacific color, Faga'alu, Samoa, 15 feet

Juvenile, Firehouse, Oahu, 25 feet

Molokini Crater, Maui

Vertically compressed body with large eyes.  Color varies from all silver to white with brown saddles.  Attractive juveniles are frequent during summer.  South Pacific coloration mostly brown with yellow tail.  Attains 2 feet and 13 pounds.  Hawaii & the Indo-Pacific.

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