Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellow snapper (Lutjanus argentiventris) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 71 cm.
Eastern Pacific from Mexico to Peru, near reefs, rocky coasts, mangroves and estuaries; juveniles go far into brackish water.
Description
The yellow snapper (pargo amarillo) is a snapper of the family Lutjanidae reaching about 71 cm. The front of the body is greyish-red, while the rear body and tail turn bright yellow; the jaws bear a few sharp canine teeth and the dorsal fin is spined. The species lives around reefs, rocky coasts, mangroves and estuaries in the eastern Pacific from Mexico to Peru; juveniles range far into brackish water. Mainly at night it hunts small fish, shrimp, crabs and other crustaceans. With its size, tasty flesh and handsome colour it is a prized sport and market fish and locally an important coastal species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow snapper?
The Yellow snapper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Snapper with a greyish-red front and a bright yellow rear body and tail; pointed canine teeth in the jaws.
Where does the Yellow snapper live?
The Yellow snapper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific from Mexico to Peru, near reefs, rocky coasts, mangroves and estuaries; juveniles go far into brackish water.
How big does the Yellow snapper get?
The Yellow snapper grows to a maximum of about 71 cm.
Is the Yellow snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellow snapper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellow snapper edible?
Yes, the Yellow snapper is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Lutjanus
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellow snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.