Overview
This species is easily recognized by the alternating dark and light stripes on the sides formed by parallel rows of scales that have yellowish-white centers. Mullet snapper are generally dark gray-green to reddish on the back and sides with a silvery bellly. Individuals from deeper water are mainly reddish.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Lutjanidae
- Genus
- Lutjanus
- Species
- aratus
Habitat
Juveniles are encountered in shallow water of coastal estuaries and embayments; adult mullets snapper range further offshore and may form aggregations consisting of several hundreds of individuals.
Diet
Fish are dominant in the diet of this active predatory species. Other common foods include crabs, shrimps, prawns and other crustaceans, cephalopods and gastropods.
Behavior
Mullet snapper are schooling fish that often form large aggregations around reefs and structures, making them more active during the day when they hunt for food. They exhibit territorial behavior around feeding areas and can be cautious, quickly dispersing when threatened. These fish are known for their strong swimming capabilities, allowing them to cover wide areas in search of prey.
Fishing
They are strong fighters and can be taken on natural and artificial lures and flies. Methods of fishing include surf casting, drift fishing, jigging or anchoring to chum. Like most snapper, mullet snappers are considered good eating.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.