Queen Snapper

Etelis oculatus
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 36 inches
Similar species
Other snappers Size: Up to 36 inches
Appearance
  • Back and upper sides are red, fading to a lighter belly
  • Large yellow eyes
  • Tail is deeply forked
  • Body is long and slender
  • Dorsal fin with a notch in the middle
  • No dark spot on side below dorsal fin
Habitat
Common offshore over rocky reefs of the continental shelf to 450 feet deep. Young queen snapper suspend at mid-depths.
Behavior
There is little is known about the queen snapper, but it is reported that adults live at depths greater than 400 feet. Mainly consume small fishes and squid