Mutton snapper

Photo: lillemorphis · CC BY-NC

Mutton snapper co-aggregate with cubera snapper at Gladden Spit, their combined spawning creating the nutrient pulse that attracts whale sharks. During non-spawning months they disperse across reef and seagrass habitats but smaller resident groups are visible on the shelf year-round. Their pink-flushed flanks and black lateral spot make them easy to identify underwater.