Mutton Snapper - Leo E

 Lutjanus analis

    The Mutton snapper is a species of snapper commonly found in the state of Florida. Found in coastal waters near structure, these fish are well known in the angler world for being a great fight and tasty. They can grow up to 76 cm, or a little over 11 kg in Florida. They can be found from as far north as Massachussets to Brasil, but found most commonly in tropical waters. This week, many mutton snappers were observed in coral reef habitats in the Florida Keys. 

    Mutton snappers can be identified by their olive color and black spot found below their dorsal fin. They contain blue lines below their eyes, which can help distinguish them from lane snappers. They also have pointed anal and dorsal fins, but a rounded tail fin. Mutton snappers are of a single genetic stock, and generally develop in inshore waters such as seagrass flats or mangrove habitats before moving to deeper water as it ages. 

    Mutton snappers tend to be solitary and can be most often found near structure. This species spawns in between the months of February to August, and depending on temperature and location can vary on when spawning aggregations occur. The photo above shows a mutton snapper seen at Looe Key. 

References: 

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/saltwater/snapper/mutton-snapper/

https://gulfcouncil.org/fishing-regulations/mutton-snapper-lutjanus-analis/