Fin's Fish Guide
The Crimson snapper (Lutjanus erythropterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 82 cm.
Description
The crimson snapper is a large snapper from the Indo-West Pacific, from the Persian Gulf to Fiji, north to Japan and south to Australia. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a deep, crimson-red body that pales towards the belly; juveniles have a dark tail spot. As a bottom-dweller of deeper reefs and soft bottoms it hunts mainly at night for fish, crustaceans and squid. It is an important commercial food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Crimson snapper?
The Crimson snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Deep carmine-red body; nocturnal reef predator
Where does the Crimson snapper live?
The Crimson snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Crimson snapper get?
The Crimson snapper grows to a maximum of about 82 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Crimson snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Crimson 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 Crimson snapper edible?
Yes, the Crimson snapper is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Crimson snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crimson snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.