Lutjanus inermis (Peters, 1869)
Golden snapper
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Lutjanidae (Snappers), subfamily: Lutjaninae
Max. size:  34 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range - 40 m
Distribution:  Eastern Pacific: Mexico to Panama. Included in the genus Rabiruba Jordan & Fesler by some authors.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 10-10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13-13; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 11-11. Snout very pointed. Mouth relatively small, the maxilla extending to front of eye. Eyes large, about 4 times in head length. Preopercular notch and knob weak. Scale rows on back rising obliquely above lateral line. Live coloration unknown.
Biology:  Adults inhabit coastal rocky and coral reefs up to at least 40 m depth (Ref. 9313). During the day they form schools of 30 or more individuals, which sometimes remain stationary (Ref. 9313). Juveniles are seen associated with schools of Chromis atrilobata (Ref. 9313). Feed on invertebrates and fish and may also ingest plankton (Ref.9313). Marketed fresh and frozen (Ref. 9313).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 23 May 2007 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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