CUBERA SNAPPER – Lutjanus cyanopterus

Article by: Mark Mayo

Family Lutjanidae, SNAPPERS

Description: color dark brown or gray, may have a reddish tinge; broad-based triangular tooth patch on roof of mouth without a posterior extension; despite its specific name, which translates to “blue-fin,” the fins have only a slight tinge of blue; canine teeth in both jaws very strong; one pair of canines enlarged and visible even when mouth is closed.

Similar fish: gray snapper, L. griseus (gray snapper has anchor shaped tooth patch on roof of mouth); other snappers.

Where found: juveniles INSHORE in grass beds; adults OFFHORE or NEARSHOR  over wrecks, reefs, and ledges.

Size: common to 40 pounds.

Remarks: the largest of the snappers, ranging to 125 pounds; not common anywhere in its range; feeds on fishes and larger crustaceans; in the Keys, spawns during later summer.

Mark Mayo

I research and report on fishing, fishing gear/equipment, survival topics, and marketing for outdoors related businesses. I assist here on CB Fishing as the editor. Articles may contain AI researched content. All content is published for education and entertainment purposes only, NOT LIFE, HEALTH, SURVIVAL, FINANCIAL, BUSINESS, LEGAL OR ANY OTHER ADVICE. Learn more about Mark Mayo