Queen Snapper: Etelis oculatus

Appearance:

• Color of back and upper sides red
• Silvery body long and slender
• Dorsal fin distinctly notched
• Large eyes
• Caudal fin deeply forked
• No dark lateral spot

Habitat:

Queen snapper are common offshore over rocky reefs of the continental shelf to 450 feet deep.  Young queen snapper suspend at mid-depths.

Behavior:

There is little is known about the queen snapper, but it is reported that adults live at depths greater than 400 feet.

State Record:

This species is not currently eligible for a state record.

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Additional Information:

Queen snapper are a small species, usually less than 20 inches.

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles