The Brazilian Snapper – Lutjanus alexandrei is a species of fish belonging to the snapper family, Lutjanidae. It is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 33.1 cm. This species is found in a variety of habitats, including brackish water, coastal waters, coral reefs, estuaries (river mouths), mangrove zones, rocky reefs, and tide pools.
Description & Characteristics
The Brazilian Snapper is a colorful fish, with a reddish-brown body that is often marked with yellow or orange stripes. Its scales are relatively large, and it has a prominent, pointed snout. The Lutjanus alexandrei has a deep body, a large mouth, and a slightly forked tail.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Brazilian Snapper is a common inhabitant of the neritic zone, which encompasses the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the ocean. This zone extends from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge, approximately 200 meters in depth. The species is found in a variety of marine environments, including coastal waters, estuaries, and reefs. This fish prefers areas with abundant cover, such as coral reefs, rocky reefs, and mangrove zones, where it can find food and shelter from predators.
Taxonomy
The species Lutjanus alexandrei belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Lutjanidae. This classification places it within the larger group of ray-finned fishes, with a specific lineage within the Eupercaria clade that is still being studied. The Lutjanidae family, also known as snappers, comprises a diverse group of fish species, with a wide geographical distribution and a variety of ecological roles.
Feeding
The Brazilian Snapper is a carnivore, feeding primarily on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. This species is known to actively hunt its prey, using its sharp teeth to capture and consume its meals. The Lutjanus alexandrei is an important part of the food chain, helping to control populations of smaller organisms within its habitat.
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