Gray Snapper (Mangrove Snapper)

Physical Characteristics

Gray to greenish-brown body relative to environment, often with a reddish-gold hue. This juvenile specimen displays characteristic vertical pale bars that fade with age. It features a pointed snout and prominent canine teeth. Fins are often reddish or yellow-tinged, and a dark stripe frequently runs from the snout through the eye.

Habitat & Distribution

Inhabits coastal waters of the Western Atlantic, ranging from Massachusetts to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. Juveniles prefer shallow estuaries, seagrass beds, and mangroves; adults migrate to offshore reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms up to 180 meters deep.

Size & Weight

Typically 2-6 lbs (0.9-2.7 kg) and 10-18 inches (25-45 cm). Maximum recorded length is 35 inches (89 cm) and weight up to 44 lbs (20 kg).

Similar Looking Species

Cubera Snapper (Lutjanus cyanopterus) which grows much larger and has a different tooth patch shape; and the Schoolmaster Snapper (Lutjanus apodus) which has more vibrant yellow fins and distinct blue lines under the eyes.

Ecological Role

An opportunistic predator feeding primarily at night on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. It serves as a vital middle-link predator in reef ecosystems. Conservation status: Least Concern (IUCN), though local populations are managed to prevent over-extraction.

Identified on: 4/7/2026

Mode: Standard