Mullet Snapper

Lutjanus aratus

The Mullet Snapper, a member of the Lutjanidae family, is commonly found in the Eastern Pacific, ranging from Mexico to Ecuador. This reef-associated species inhabits depths from the surface down to 60 meters, though most are found shallower than 40 meters. Divers can recognize the Mullet Snapper by its dark gray-green back and lighter belly, with scales that have yellowish white centers creating alternating dark and light stripes along its sides. Individuals from deeper waters may appear more reddish. The body is fusiform in shape, with an oval cross-section, and features dorsal spines numbering 11 to 12 and dorsal soft rays totaling 12. The anal fin comprises 3 spines and 7 to 8 soft rays. Mullet Snappers are carnivorous, feeding on fish and invertebrates. They are known to form large schools, sometimes consisting of several hundred individuals, particularly as adults over hard bottoms. Juveniles, on the other hand, are often found in shallower waters, including littoral pools and estuaries. Despite its size, reaching up to 100 cm in length and weighing as much as 15 kg, the Mullet Snapper poses no threat to humans and is considered harmless. For divers, encountering a school of Mullet Snappers can be an impressive sight, especially given their size and the sheer number of individuals. The species is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.