Fin's Fish Guide
The Schoolmaster snapper (Lutjanus apodus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 79 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, near mangroves, seagrass, coral and rocky reefs of coastal water; juveniles go into brackish water.
Description
The schoolmaster snapper is a robust snapper of the family Lutjanidae reaching about 79 cm but usually smaller. The body is olive-brown to greyish with yellow fins and faint pale crossbars; the jaws bear a few sharp canine teeth. Juveniles grow up among mangroves and seagrass and enter brackish water; adults form schools by day around coral and rock reefs in the western Atlantic. Mainly at night it hunts small fish, shrimp, crabs and other crustaceans. With its tasty flesh it is a valued sport and market fish and a familiar sight on Caribbean reefs.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Schoolmaster snapper?
The Schoolmaster snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Robust snapper with yellow fins, faint pale vertical bars and pointed canine teeth; juveniles live among mangroves and seagrass. 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 Schoolmaster snapper live?
The Schoolmaster snapper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, near mangroves, seagrass, coral and rocky reefs of coastal water; juveniles go into brackish water.
How big does the Schoolmaster snapper get?
The Schoolmaster snapper grows to a maximum of about 79 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Schoolmaster snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Schoolmaster snapper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Schoolmaster snapper edible?
Yes, the Schoolmaster snapper is a highly prized food fish.
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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 Schoolmaster snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Schoolmaster snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.