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Yellowtail Snapper

Ocyurus chrysurus

Appearance

yellow tail snapper
  • Olive to bluish back with yellow spots
  • Yellow stripe on side, from mouth to tail, broadening toward rear
  • Tail is yellow and deeply forked
  • Lower sides and belly with narrow pink and yellow stripes
  • No dark spot on side below dorsal fin

Similar Species: Other snappers 

Size: Up to 30 inches (5 pounds) 

Habitat

Coastal waters, mainly near coral reefs.

Behavior

Found mainly in tropical waters. Spawn in mid-summer.

Feed on fishes and invertebrates.

Additional Information

State Record: 8 lb 9 oz, caught near Ft. Myers

Recreational Regulations

 

Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles