
The stock is not well-monitored. Underwater survey revealed decreasing size of fish for this species in some places and low number of fish even at spawning aggregation site, indicating a declining stock.
Hook and lining is relatively selective fishing method but it can still catch non-target species and overfished. This non-target catch would also be retained, however the level of this non-target catch is unknown. This fishing method has minimal impact to the seabed. Cyanide fishing is noted for catching this species and this fishing method has significant negative impact on the habitats, particularly coral reefs.
Management measures vary among countries but are limited to licensing and establishing marine reserves. These measures are inadequate and management is considered as not effective.