Common names
Mexican snapper, Redtail snapper, Spot snapper, Candy snapper, Biajaiba
Lane snapper
Lutjanus synagris
- Saltwater
- Near threatened
Max length23.5 in
Common length9.75 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight7 lb 11 oz
Depth range33 - 1312 ft
Max age10 years
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
The colouration of the lane snapper varies from rosy-red to light olivaceous. There are horizontal yellow stripes on the side, although these may be masked by horizontal blotching. A large distinguishing maroon or dark eye-sized spot lies on both sides just below the dorsal (top) fin. They have a rounded anal fin and the edge of their tail is trimmed in black. This species has two colour phases, a deep-water phase which is darker and more distinctive than the colour of the shallow-water resting phase. They have an oblong, compressed body, a sharply pointed snout, and a pair of front and rear nostrils which are simple holes. They have a relatively large mouth, a continuous dorsal fin, and relatively short pectoral fins which do not extend as far as the anus.
Habitat
They occur over reefs and sandy bottoms with algae or seagrass at depths between. The juveniles live in sheltered inshore waters.
Distribution
Lane snapper are found in the Western Atlantic Ocean where it occurs as far north as North Carolina and Bermuda south through the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, and along the coast of South America as far south as Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Behaviour
Spawn March to September. Lane snapper are sedentary, staying in a home range, after they have become adults, except when spawning. Lane snapper are opportunistic, nocturnal predators feeding on a diverse range of animals. Known prey includes smaller fishes, cephalopods, gastropods, and crustaceans such as shrimps and crabs.
Edibility
Lane snapper are regarded as a great eating fish – mainly because their own diet is so varied. This tasty fish feeds on crabs and shrimp which give it a delicious, sweet flavour and firm flesh. It's a very versatile fish, just like any snapper.
Lure suggestion
Small jigs worked slowly near the bottom are very effective. Snapper will also take hard and soft vibes, trolled hard body lures and even metal slugs. Good bait: live and frozen baits, such as shrimp, squid, cut bait, and minnows.