Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue-gray snapper (Aprion virescens) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 112 cm.
Description
The green jobfish is a large, slender snapper (Lutjanidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 112 cm and has a streamlined, blue-green to grey body built for speed. Adults live in the open water of deep lagoons, channels and seaward reefs, usually singly but sometimes in groups. They prey mainly on fishes, supplemented with shrimps, crabs, cephalopods and plankton. The species is an excellent and highly prized food fish, but large specimens can cause ciguatera poisoning. It is marketed mainly fresh, but also dried and salted.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue-gray snapper?
The Blue-gray snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Slender, fast snapper; large specimens can cause ciguatera poisoning.
Where does the Blue-gray snapper live?
The Blue-gray snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, in deep lagoons, channels and seaward reefs.
How big does the Blue-gray snapper get?
The Blue-gray snapper grows to a maximum of about 112 cm. On average the species is around 90 cm.
Is the Blue-gray snapper dangerous to humans?
The Blue-gray snapper is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Harmless to handle, but large specimens can cause ciguatera poisoning if eaten. In case of symptoms such as tingling, nausea, vomiting or a reversed hot-cold sensation seek medical help and keep any leftover material.
Is the Blue-gray snapper edible?
Yes, the Blue-gray snapper is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Blue-gray snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-gray 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 Blue-gray snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-gray snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.