Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese snapper (Paracaesio caerulea) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia, Ogasawara Is.
Description
The Japanese snapper is a deepwater snapper (Lutjanidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, streamlined, blue-silver body with a deeply forked tail. Unlike most snappers it is a plankton feeder that hovers in schools above deeper reef and rock slopes and snaps small zooplankton. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese snapper?
The Japanese snapper has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Japanese snapper live?
The Japanese snapper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia, Ogasawara Is.
How big does the Japanese snapper get?
The Japanese snapper grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Japanese snapper dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese snapper is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Japanese snapper edible?
Yes, the Japanese snapper is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paracaesio
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese snapper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese snapper is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone