Fin's Fish Guide
The African red snapper (Lutjanus agennes) is a brackish-water fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 139 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms, reefs, estuaries and mangroves; young fish tolerate brackish water.
Description
The African red snapper is a very large snapper of the family Lutjanidae reaching about 1.4 metres. The robust, red-grey body has strong, dog-like canine teeth at the front of the mouth. The species lives near rocky bottoms, reefs, estuaries and mangroves along the West African coast; young fish grow up in sheltered brackish estuaries and mangroves, while adults seek deeper reef. As a predator it hunts fish, crabs and crustaceans. It is an important commercial and sport fish. The IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD) but warns that fishing of West African snappers may have caused a strong decline in the stock.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African red snapper?
The African red snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Very large snapper with strong canine teeth; young fish grow up in brackish estuaries and mangroves, adults on deeper reef.
Where does the African red snapper live?
The African red snapper lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms, reefs, estuaries and mangroves; young fish tolerate brackish water.
How big does the African red snapper get?
The African red snapper grows to a maximum of about 139 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the African red snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the African red snapper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African red snapper edible?
Yes, the African red snapper is a highly prized food fish.
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Lutjanus
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the African red snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African red snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.