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What is a Yellowtail Snapper?

J.L. Drede
J.L. Drede

The yellowtail snapper is a fish of the Lutjanidae family with the scientific name Ocyurus chrysurus. It is a saltwater fish and is found in the Atlantic Ocean, most frequently in the areas surrounding the Bahamas and south Florida. It is a popular commercial and sport fish.

The yellowtail snapper is a medium-sized fish and can reach lengths of 30 inches (75 cm) and weigh as much as 5 pounds (2.2 kg). Its most notable physical feature is the one that it gets its name from; its bright yellow tail that serves as a stark contrast to its light blue/olive color. Further making the fish stand out is that the coloration of the tail extends as a stripe from the back fin all the way to its mouth. Yellow spots accompany the stripe on the top half of the body and a bright yellow dorsal fin accentuates the color contrast further.

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The fish spends most of its time in mid-range depths between 32 and 320 feet (10 to 70 meters) and is usually seen in schools. Like many other fish, the yellowtail snapper feeds at night and its prey includes crabs, shrimp, small fish and worms. Juveniles primarily survive on a diet of seagrass and plankton. Natural predators of the fish include most large predatory fish, including the mackerel, grouper, sharks and barracudas. Assuming it is not snapped up by one of the large predators that feed on it, the yellowtail snapper can survive up to 14 years in the wild.

Because of its striking coloration, the yellowtail snapper is occasionally seen as an aquarium fish. However, it requires a very large aquarium and cannot have any tank mates as it will try to eat them. It is commonly fished both in a commercial and sport capacity and it is often sold both as a fresh and frozen fish. Its popularity as a food fish has led to some breeding and farming in captivity to meet demand.

While the fish is harmless and consumption of yellowtail snapper is incredibly common there have been occasional reports that eating the fish can lead to ciguatera poisoning. Ciguatera is a toxin that is usually found in algae and the fish that eat that algae. The snapper eats those fish, and consumes the toxin they have in their system. Usually the amount of ciguatera toxin in a snapper is minute and entirely harmless to humans but on rare occasion it can cause illness. Ciguatera poisoning typically causes gastrointestinal problems and a general weakness in their body for several days. It is not life-threatening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Yellowtail Snapper?

The Yellowtail Snapper is a vibrant, colorful fish found in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly around the coral reefs of the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. It's easily recognizable by its bright yellow stripe running the full length of its body and tail, which gives the species its name.

What does the Yellowtail Snapper eat?

Yellowtail Snappers are opportunistic feeders, primarily dining on a diet of small fish, shrimp, crabs, worms, and other invertebrates. Their varied diet helps maintain the balance of the reef's ecosystem, showcasing their role as active predators within their habitat.

How big do Yellowtail Snappers get?

On average, Yellowtail Snappers grow to about 30 inches in length and can weigh up to 5 pounds. However, most individuals caught are smaller, typically around 1 to 2 pounds. According to the International Game Fish Association, the world record for the largest Yellowtail Snapper caught is 11 pounds.

Are Yellowtail Snappers good to eat?

Yes, Yellowtail Snappers are highly prized for their delicious, flaky white meat, which is considered excellent table fare. They are a popular choice among seafood enthusiasts and are often featured in culinary dishes across the regions where they are found.

What is the lifespan of a Yellowtail Snapper?

Yellowtail Snappers can live up to 6 or 7 years in the wild. Their lifespan is influenced by various factors, including predation, habitat quality, and availability of food sources. They reach sexual maturity at around 2 to 3 years of age, contributing to their population sustainability.

How can I identify a Yellowtail Snapper?

To identify a Yellowtail Snapper, look for its distinctive yellow stripe and forked yellow tail. They also have a blue stripe below the eye and a series of bars or spots on their sides. These features, combined with their sleek, torpedo-shaped body, make them quite recognizable among other reef fish.

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