Mutton Snapper
The mutton snapper (Lutjanus analis) is a prized marine fish found throughout the Western Atlantic, from the United States to Brazil. It inhabits coral reefs, sandy areas, and seagrass beds, where it hunts smaller fish and invertebrates. The mutton snapper is easily recognized by its olive-green back and reddish sides, with a distinctive black spot beneath the dorsal fin. It is highly sought after by both commercial and recreational fishers due to its tasty flesh and game qualities.
Length~50 (max 94)
Weight~8 (max 15)
WaterSalt
Water Temp15-21° F
Depth1-168 ft
- Other names-
- Length~50 (max 94)
- Weight~8 (max 15)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp15-21° F
- Depth1-168 ft
Popular lures for Mutton Snapper
Regulation for Mutton Snapper
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit5
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size18"
- MeasurementTotal Length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Mutton snapper favor clear, warm waters around coral reefs and rocky bottoms
- They are often found near seagrass beds and sandy flats, particularly in coastal areas
- Their diet mainly includes smaller fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, making them opportunistic predators
- During the day, they typically stay close to the reef, venturing out at night to hunt in more open waters
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in late spring and summer, often near reef edges or in deeper waters
- Mutton snappers form large spawning aggregations, with peak activity during full moons
- Females release eggs into the water column, where they are fertilized by males and left to drift
- Juveniles settle in shallow, vegetated habitats, gradually moving to deeper reef areas as they mature