SNAPPER, MUTTON
The Mutton Snapper, is a species of snapper native to the Atlantic coastal waters of the Americas. They inhabit reef environments with adults preferring areas with rock or coral while juveniles prefer sandy habitats with plentiful weed growth. They can be found at depths of from 25 to 90 metres (82 to 295 ft) though most often between 40 and 70 metres (130 and 230 ft).
The colour of the Mutton Snapper is olive green on the back and the upper sides. All fins below the lateral line have a reddish tinge.They have bright blue line below the eye, following a contour of operculum. The anal fin is pointed. There are small black spots below the dorsal fin. They have a v-shaped tooth patch on the roof of the mouth.
Mutton Snapper are a highly prized fish by saltwater anglers; they can be caught on a variety of baits, but are most commonly caught on live or frozen shrimp, whole or cut squid, minnows, and smaller bait fish (such as live or dead pinfish). Mutton Snapper have been caught on artificial baits, but seem to prefer live bait. They can generally be found in deeper water, although catches (generally of juveniles and smaller fish) are not uncommon in more shallow water. They are also caught on the surface during night-fishing expeditions. Mutton Snapper are typically known as great fighters relative to other snapper species, so are harder to land on lighter tackle. Many are often landed as a "bycatch" of anglers targeting other species of snapper or grouper.
Internationally
The Mutton Snapper native to the Atlantic coastal waters of the Americas from Massachusetts to southern Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. They are particularly common in the Caribbean.