Gray Snapper: Lutjanus griseus

Appearance:

• Dark brown or gray with reddish or orange spots in rows along the sides
• A dark horizontal band from snout through eye is present in young only
• Two conspicuous canine teeth are present at front of upper jaw
• Ddorsal fins have dark or reddish borders
• No dark spot is present on side underneath dorsal fin
  
  

Habitat:

Juvenile gray snapper are found inshore in tidal creeks, mangroves, and grass beds.  Adults are generally found nearshore or offshore on coral or rocky reefs.

Behavior:

Spawning occurs June through August.  Gray snapper feed on crustaceans and small fish.

State Record:

17 lb, caught near Port Canaveral

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Gray snapper caught offshore are common 8 to 10 pounds. Gray snapper are similar in appearance to the cubera snapper, L. cyanopterus.

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles