Mutton Snapper

Lutjanus analis

One of the most impressive fish you'll see while snorkeling is the Mutton Snapper. They will just cruise by and all of a sudden you'll say "Oh! Hello Big Daddy!" Very easy to identify with the black spot on their mid-body below the dorsal fin. they have a slopped forhead and sort of a rainbow colored, forked tail. Very cool to see. they can be a solid gray color or with body bars over thier backs. Depths as shallow as 5 feet. Can grow to 2.5 feet in length. They seen unconcerned about your presence and will allow you to follow or if you remain still may come over for a look-see.