Common names
Silver Seabream, Schnapper, Cocknies, Red bream, Pinkies, Squire, Squirefish, Snapper, Ruggers, Pink snapper
Australasian snapper
Chrysophrys auratus
- Saltwater
- Least concern
Max length51.25 in
Common length15.75 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight44 lb 1 oz
Depth range0 - 656 ft
Max age54 years
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
A silvery pink to coppery-pink seabream, becoming pale silvery below, with many small electric blue spots scattered on the upper side (especially in juveniles). Large fish of both sexes develop a prominent hump on the head.
Habitat
Small fish are common inshore around reef areas often in groups of around 30 individuals. Adults often live near reefs but are also found over mud and substrates, they are also known to enter estuaries and harbours.
Distribution
Found in coastal waters of Australia, Philippines, Indonesia, mainland China, Taiwan, Japan and New Zealand. In Australia common in coastal and offshore waters from the Capricorn Group in north Queensland around the coast of southern Australia to Coral Bay in Western Australia (including Tasmania).
Behaviour
Larger fish are shy and are less frequently seen, they are relatively sedentary. The fish spawn in inshore waters and live in rocky areas. However, tagging studies have shown them capable of substantial migrations. Crustaceans (crabs, shrimps, etc) form the basis of the diet, but marine worms, starfish, sea urchins, shellfish, and fish are also important.
Edibility
It is highly prized as an eating fish, with a sweet sea taste and a firm texture.
Lure suggestion
It's the jerkbait style plastics that dominate the snapper catches due to its realistic, narrow baitfish profile and lack of built-in tail action, allowing it to get down to where the fish are, especially in deep water and strong currents. Good baits: squid, prawns, octopus, fish.