Mangrove Snapper (Lutjanus griseus)

Mangrove snappers (Lutjanus griseus), also commonly referred to as gray snappers, are native to the east coast from Massachusetts to Brazil, however adults are rare north of the Carolinas. They are a common "Gulf Stream stray" and are often carried by the Gulf Stream current as fry and deposited throughout the summer in coastal waters up the east coast. It is thought that they do not survive the winters up north, which explains why specimens found north of the Carolinas are typically juveniles. They are a popular sportfish and common table-fare throughout their range and are farmed by several aquaculture operations worldwide. While mostly associated with marine and brackish waters there are few populations existing in freshwater.  Their presence in the aquarium trade is limited however these beautiful fish can adapt to a wide variety of salinities and make for active and beautiful additions to larger aquariums and ponds. I've had a lot of fun keeping juveniles of this species and have