Flametail snapperLutjanus fulvus
Category
- Fringing Reef
Description
Lutjanus fulvus, of the order of Perciformes and family of Lutjanidae (Snappers) is commonly known as the Blacktail Snapper, Black-tail Snapper, Blacktailed Snapper, Flametail Snapper, Redmargined Seaperch, Taiva, and Waigeu Snapper amongst others. Overall body colour varies from brown to pale yellow or white. There is a white margin on a dark red or black dorsal and caudal fins. Anal, pectoral and pelvic fins are yellow. There is a yellow patch above the eye. Juveniles have yellow stripes and a black sub-marginal band on the dorsal fin. It has total of 10 dorsal spines, 13 to 14 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines and 8 anal soft rays[1].
[1] ‘Lutjanus Fulvus Summary Page’.
Habitat and ecology
This species is present across the Indo-Pacific region. It is found in lagoons, seaward reefs and shelter areas. They can be solitary or in groups. Juveniles can be found in mangrove swamps. Adults feed at night. Diet consists of fishes, shrimps, crabs, holothurians and cephalopods.
Conservation and management
According to the IUCN Red list, this species is categorized as being of ‘Least Concern’. It is collected for consumption which is a potential threat. Management plans are in place in certain areas for this species. It is also present in many MPAs[1].
Did you know?
This species can reach a maximum recorded length of 40cm and age of 34 years old.
