Ocyurus chrysurus
60cm
0-180m
26 sites
The most obvious identifying feature is the brilliant yellow tail that gives this fish its name. This vibrant yellow coloration extends in a stripe along the body, contrasting with the bluish-grey back and silvery sides. Yellowtail Snapper have a streamlined, elongated body shape typical of snappers. Look for a moderately forked tail and a pointed snout. They often form schools, especially when young, which helps distinguish them from solitary snapper species.
Lutjanidae
The Yellowtail Snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus) is a vibrant and captivating sight on Caribbean and Eastern Pacific reefs, easily earning its high diver appeal score. Imagine gliding along a coral garden and encountering a school of these streamlined beauties, their bright yellow tails flashing in the sunlight! Reaching a typical size of 60cm, but potentially growing much larger, these fish are often seen in large aggregations, especially juveniles. While they can be found at depths up to 180m, divers and snorkelers most often encounter them in shallower, sun-drenched areas, gracefully navigating the reef structure. Keep an eye out for them while drift diving or exploring shallow coral formations. These snappers are carnivores, meaning they actively hunt smaller fish and invertebrates. Observing their feeding behaviour can be a real treat! However, be aware that Yellowtail Snapper have been implicated in cases of ciguatera poisoning, so while they are a pleasure to observe, consumption should be approached with caution, if at all.
Safety Warning
reports of ciguatera poisoning
Midnight Snapper
92 sites
