Yellowtail snapper

Yellowtail Snapper

The Yellowtail Snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus) is a vibrant, tropical species of snapper that is commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean. This species is highly sought after by both commercial and recreational fishermen due to its delicious taste and beautiful appearance.

Description

The Yellowtail Snapper is easily identifiable by its yellow stripe that runs from the snout to the tail, which is also yellow. The body is generally a silver color with a slight blue tint. The average size of a Yellowtail Snapper is between 12 to 14 inches, but they can grow up to 30 inches.

Habitat

Yellowtail Snapper are typically found in the Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Massachusetts to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They prefer to inhabit areas with rocky or coral reefs and are usually found at depths between 32 to 230 feet.

Diet

The diet of the Yellowtail Snapper consists mainly of small fish, shrimp, crabs, worms, and other invertebrates. They are known to be opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat whatever is available to them.

Fishing

Yellowtail Snapper are a popular target for both commercial and recreational fishermen. They are typically caught using hook and line, and are considered a great sport fish due to their strong fighting abilities.

Conservation Status

The Yellowtail Snapper is currently listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This is due to their wide distribution and large population size. However, overfishing is a potential threat that could impact their population in the future.

Culinary Use

Yellowtail Snapper is highly prized for its light, sweet flavor and firm texture. It is often served grilled, baked, or fried and is a common feature in Caribbean cuisine.

See Also

• Snapper (fish)
• Fishing
• Atlantic Ocean
• Caribbean cuisine

References

• FishBase - Yellowtail Snapper
• IUCN Red List - Yellowtail Snapper