Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden African snapper (Lutjanus fulgens) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
Description
The golden African snapper is a red-orange snapper of the family Lutjanidae reaching about 60 cm. The sturdy body is red-orange with a row of golden-yellow lengthwise stripes along the flank and has strong canine teeth at the front of the mouth. The species lives near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf along the West African coast, often in small groups. As a nocturnal predator it hunts fish, crabs and crustaceans. With its tasty, firm flesh the golden African snapper is a valued commercial and sport fish of the West African coast, landed by line and bottom fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden African snapper?
The Golden African snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Red-orange snapper with fine golden-yellow longitudinal stripes along the flank and powerful canine teeth.
Where does the Golden African snapper live?
The Golden African snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
How big does the Golden African snapper get?
The Golden African snapper grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Golden African snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden African snapper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Golden African snapper edible?
Yes, the Golden African 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 Golden African snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden African snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.