Fin's Fish Guide
The Bastard snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Western Atlantic, from the southeast coast of the USA via the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean to Brazil, above reefs and hard bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The vermilion snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens) is a slender snapper of the family Lutjanidae from the western Atlantic, from the southeastern USA to Brazil. It reaches about 40-60 cm and has a bright red body, sometimes with golden tints, and a forked tail. Unlike many related snappers it often feeds higher in the water column, in schools, on small fishes, crustaceans and zooplankton. The fish lives over reefs and hard bottoms of the continental shelf. It is a highly prized commercial and sport fish with tasty flesh.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bastard snapper?
The Bastard snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Slender, bright red snapper that hunts in shoals above the water column; an important commercial and sport fish.
Where does the Bastard snapper live?
The Bastard snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, from the southeast coast of the USA via the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean to Brazil, above reefs and hard bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Bastard snapper get?
The Bastard snapper grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Bastard snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Bastard snapper is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bastard snapper edible?
Yes, the Bastard snapper is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bastard snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the Bastard snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.