Bluestriped snapperLutjanus kasmira
Category
- Fringing Reef
Description
Lutjanus kasmira belongs to the order of Perciformes and family of Lutjanidae (Snappers).
It is commonly known as the Common bluestripe snapper, Blue-banded Hussar, Blue-banded sea perch, Blue-banded snapper, Blue-lined sea perch, Blue-lined snapper fish, Blue-striped Sea-perch, Blue-striped snapper, Four-lined snapper, and Moonlighter among others. This fish has striking colours, with an upper body which is bright yellow with 4 narrow blue stripes that run horizontally across the sides and slightly greyish stripes on its silvery white belly. Its fins are yellow. The dorsal head profile is steeply sloped. It has a total of 10 dorsal spines, 14 to 15 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines and 7 to 8 anal soft rays. It can reach a maximum length of 40cm.
Habitat and ecology
Lutjanus kasmira is present in the Indo-Pacific region. There are accounts of its presence off South Korea and Pitcairn Islands as well. Its Maximum recorded depth range is 265 m, but it is more commonly found at 60 m.
Adults dwell on coral reefs while juveniles inhabit seagrass beds and mangrove estuaries. The diet of the Bluestriped snapper consists of fish, shrimp, crabs, cephalopods and planktonic crustaceans. There are reports of this species consuming algae as well.
During courtship, male Bluestriped snappers use their snout to nuzzle, nudge and rub the undersides of the females. At lower latitude, spawning occurs almost year-round. The eggs hatch after 18 hours at 22 to 25 degrees Celsius. The reproductive lifespan of the Bluestriped snapper is 8 years.
Conservation and management
According to the IUCN Red list, this species is categorized as being of ‘Least Concern’ as it is common and widespread. It has also been introduced to other areas outside of its native range. Juveniles form part of the aquarium trade. This species is part of multispecies fisheries over its distribution.
The Bluestriped snapper is managed over various regions (Guam, Hawaii, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Australia) and found in MPAs as well. Regulations include; size limits, seasonal closures, limited access, fishing gear restriction, catch limits, permits and catch reporting. There are documented increases in some parts of its range and no documented declines.
Did you know?
This species has a longevity of about 10 years.
This Bluestriped snapper differs from the Fiveline snapper (Lutjanus quinquelineatus) by possessing four lines instead of five across its sides.
