Mahogany snapper
Lutjanus mahogani
(Cuvier, 1828)
Description:
Body oblong-shaped, with a triangular head and a shallow notched tail. Body silvery to white, often with a reddish tinge. Usually with a black spot, about eye size, on the lateral line below the rear dorsal fin. Tail with a reddish margin (L. mahogoni), which may be quite narrow and pale.
Slightly upturned snout with a large mouth and prominent canine teeth near the front of the jaw. The lower jaw projecting slightly beyond the upper jaw.
Size up to 48 cm.
Habitat:
Inhabits clear shallow waters over rocky bottoms in the vicinity of coral reefs, down to 100 m, less frequently in sandy or seagrass areas. Often forms large aggregations during the day. Feeds at night mainly on small fish, shrimps, crabs and cephalopods.
Distribution:
Uncommon Florida, occasional to common Bahamas and Caribbean.