SnappersLutjanidae

Snappers are marine fishes typically characterised by robust, often deep bodies, a continuous dorsal fin, and large mouths equipped with prominent canine teeth. Their eyes are often relatively large, particularly in species active during low light. Body colours are diverse, ranging from silvery to reddish or yellow, with some species displaying distinct blue stripes or dark blotches. They vary significantly in size, from around 20 cm (8 in) to over 100 cm (40 in) in total length. The common name "snapper" refers to their habit of rapidly snapping their jaws when feeding.

These active predators inhabit coral and rocky reefs, occurring from shallow waters down to depths exceeding 100 m (330 ft), with many commonly observed on reef slopes and drop-offs between 1 and 60 m (3-200 ft). They feed primarily on smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. While some species are solitary or form smaller groups, others gather in large, often dense schools, particularly during the day when resting in reef shelters. Many become more active hunters at dawn and dusk. Snappers are frequently encountered throughout the 🌊 Red Sea, often seen resting under ledges or foraging over the reef.