Red Bass

Lutjanus bohar

The red bass (Lutjanus bohar), also known as the two-spot red snapper, is a large, robust snapper reaching up to 90 cm in length and 12 kg in weight. Adults display a deep crimson to dark red body with two silvery-white spots on the upper flank that fade in larger specimens. The body is deep and powerful, with a large head and a slightly forked tail. Juveniles are lighter colored, often pinkish with more prominent white spots. This species is found throughout the Indo-Pacific on coral reefs, particularly around reef passes, channels, and steep drop-offs where currents concentrate prey. It forms large schools that can contain dozens of individuals, especially during spawning aggregations. Red bass are active predators feeding on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans, hunting both day and night. They are known for their bold, unafraid approach to divers. Notably, larger specimens may accumulate ciguatera toxin in their flesh, making them potentially dangerous to eat in certain regions despite being a popular food fish.