Cubera Snapper: Lutjanus cyanopterus

Appearance:

• Color dark brown or gray, may have a reddish tinge
• Broad-based triangular tooth patch on roof of mouth without a posterior extension
• Despite its specific name, which translates to "blue-fin," the fins have only a slight tinge of blue; canine teeth in both jaws very strong
• One pair of canines are enlarged and visible even when the mouth is closed
  
  

Habitat:

Juveniles are found inshore in grass beds.  Adults are common offshore and nearshore over wrecks, reefs, and ledges.

Behavior:

Cubera snappers are the largest of the snappers, ranging to 125 pounds.  .  They are not common anywhere in its range.  These snapper feed on fishes and larger crustaceans.  Spawning occurs in the late summer in the Keys.

State Record:

116 lb, caught near Clearwater

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Similar Fish: gray snapper.

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles