Lutjanus aratus (Günther, 1864)
Mullet snapper
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Lutjanidae (Snappers), subfamily: Lutjaninae
Max. size:  100 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 15 kg
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 60 m
Distribution:  Eastern Pacific: Mexico to Ecuador.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 11-12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 7-8. Preopercular notch and knob moderate. Scale rows on back parallel to lateral line. Dark gray-green on back, lighter on belly. Scales with yellowish white centers, forming alternating dark and light stripes on the sides. Individuals from deeper waters are mainly reddish.
Biology:  This is an inshore, reef-dwelling species found over hard bottoms until at least 50 m depth (Ref. 9313). Adults may form schools consisting of several hundreds of individuals (Ref. 9313). Juveniles are encountered in shallow waters, including littoral pools and estuaries (Ref. 9313). Carnivorous, feed on fish and invertebrates (Ref. 9313). Marketed fresh.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 23 May 2007 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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