Dog Snapper: Lutjanus jocu

Appearance:

• Color brown with a bronze tinge, lighter on sides
• Canine teeth are very sharp and one pair is notably enlarged, visible even when the mouth is closed
• In adults, a pale triangle and a light blue interrupted line are below the eye
• No dark spot is found on the body underneath dorsal fin
  
  

Habitat:

Large adults are found offshore over coral and rocky reefs.  Juveniles are associated with estuaries.

Behavior:

Dog snapper spawn from spring through fall.  Known as night feeders, these snapper eat fishes, mollusks, and crustaceans.

State Record:

This species is not currently eligible for a state record.

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Similar Fish: schoolmaster, L. apodus (no white triangle under eye and fins are more yellow); other snappers.

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles