Fin's Fish Guide
The African forktail snapper (Apsilus fuscus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Eastern Atlantic off West Africa and the islands in the Gulf of Guinea, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
Description
The African forktail snapper is a dark snapper of the family Lutjanidae reaching about 75 cm. Unlike most red-coloured snappers it is almost uniformly dark brown to blue-black, with a deeply forked tail and strong teeth at the front of the mouth. Young fish are often bluish-marked. The species lives near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf off West Africa and the islands of the Gulf of Guinea. As a predator it hunts, often in loose groups above the reef, fish, crustaceans and squid. With its firm, tasty flesh it is a valued commercial and sport fish of the region.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African forktail snapper?
The African forktail snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark snapper with a deeply forked tail and powerful teeth; adults are almost uniformly dark brown to blue-black.
Where does the African forktail snapper live?
The African forktail snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic off West Africa and the islands in the Gulf of Guinea, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
How big does the African forktail snapper get?
The African forktail snapper grows to a maximum of about 75 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the African forktail snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the African forktail snapper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African forktail snapper edible?
Yes, the African forktail snapper is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Apsilus
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the African forktail snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African forktail snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.