Vermilion Snapper: Rhomboplites aurorubens

Appearance:

color of entire body reddish, with a series of short, irregular lines on its sides, diagonal blue lines formed by spots on the scales above the lateral line; sometimes with yellow streaks below the lateral line; large canine teeth absent; orientation of mouth and eye give it the appearance of looking upward; no dark lateral spot.

Habitat:

suspends at mid-depths over rocky reefs OFFSHORE.

Behavior:

spawns April to September, females maturing at 3 to 4 years of age; grows slowly; attains weight of 6 pounds and length of 24 inches; feeds on small, swimming crustaceans and mollusks

State Record:

This species is not currently eligible for a state record.

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Similar Fish: red snapper, L. campechanus (anal fin of red snapper has midpoint like a triangle).

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles