Distinguishing Characteristics |
Body moderately slender; compressed; color variable, usually dark reddish to copper above, lighter below; orange spots on scales on sides; juveniles with copper spots forming horizontal lines on side, white to bluish areas in between; juveniles with blue line under eye from snout to opercle edge; eyes red; snout pointed; canine teeth in upper jaw larger than those in lower jaw; tooth patch on roof of mouth; anal fin rounded. |
Similar Species |
Color, lack of markings and rounded anal fin distinguishes this snapper from other snappers. |
Habitat |
Gulf and bay |
Maximum Size |
65 cm (25 1/2 in), common to 35 cm (14 in) |
Fin Element Counts |
D. X,14; A. III,7-8 (explain) |
Other Common Names |
mangrove snapper |
Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
Underwater photo courtesy of TPWD Artificial Reef Marine Species. |
State size/bag limits |
None; Check for state record. |