Fin's Fish Guide
The Creek red bream (Lutjanus argentimaculatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Indo-Pacific; mangrove estuaries and lower reaches of rivers for the juveniles, coral reef for adults.
Description
The mangrove red snapper or mangrove jack is a large snapper of the family Lutjanidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 150 cm and has a red-brown to greyish body with a robust head and strong canine teeth. It is a euryhaline species: juveniles and young adults live in mangrove estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers, sometimes into fresh water, while adults move to deeper coral reef. As a predator it hunts fishes and crustaceans. The mangrove red snapper is a highly valued sport and food fish. Large reef specimens can contain ciguatera in tropical areas.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Creek red bream?
The Creek red bream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Euryhaline snapper; juveniles in mangroves and fresh water, adults on coral reef. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Creek red bream live?
The Creek red bream lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; mangrove estuaries and lower reaches of rivers for the juveniles, coral reef for adults.
How big does the Creek red bream get?
The Creek red bream grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Creek red bream dangerous to humans?
The Creek red bream is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The flesh can contain ciguatera in tropical areas; do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas. In case of poisoning (tingling, gastrointestinal symptoms, temperature-reversal sensation), seek medical care.
Is the Creek red bream edible?
Yes, the Creek red bream is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Creek red bream and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Creek red bream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Creek red bream is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lutjanus
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the Creek red bream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Creek red bream is one of 12,519 species in the app.