| Snappers are perch-like fishes, usually oblong in shape, moderately compressed, with pointed snouts, large mouths and canine-like teeth. Most are found offshore aggregated near the bottom around rocky substrates, reefs, oil platforms and wrecks, but often can be found feeding away from the bottom or on more open bottoms. Juveniles may wander into bays. One species, the gray snapper, is commonly found inshore as adults. Snappers are important food and game fishes. However, the flesh of several species, including the dog snapper and cubera snapper, are known to be toxic, causing ciguatera poisoning. |
