Lutjanus analis, the mutton snapper, is a species of snapper native to the Atlantic coastal waters of the Americas from Massachussetts to southern Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. They are particularly common in the Caribbean. They inhabit reef environments with adults preferring areas with rock or coral while juveniles prefer sandy habitats with plentiful weed growth. They can be found at depths of from 25 to 90 metres (82 to 300 ft) though most often between 40 and 70 metres (130 and 230 ft). They have olive-tinted backs and red sides with a black spot between the lateral line and the dorsal fin and blue stripes on the head. This species can reach a length of 94 centimetres (37 in) though most do not exceed 50 centimetres (20 in). The greatest known weight recorded for this species is 15.6 kilograms (34 lb). This is a commercially important species and is also sought after as a game fish. It can also be found in the aquarium trade. Mutton snapper, especially adults, tend to be solitary, but can be seen in smaller schools. Their flesh is considered by most as excellent table fare. Like most of the snapper family, the meat is white, flaky and light; and is excellent prepared in a variety of ways.

mutton_snapper.txt · Last modified: 2014/01/28 21:22 by grinder
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