Description:
Mangrove snappers, also known as gray snapprs, are somewhat less robust than other members of the snapper family, but reach maximum lengths of 2.9 feet (89 cm) and may weigh as much as 45 pounds.  Most, however, are found at significantly smaller size, typically less than 1.5 feet (46 cm) and 10 pounds (4.5 kg).  Body color is generally gray to olive dorsally, with reddish or coppery tones laterally, fading to gray or yellow-pink ventrally.  The head is large and somewhat concave in profile, sloping steeply to a long, pointed snout.  The lower jaw projects beyond the upper.  A pair of large canine teeth are set in the front of the upper jaw.  There is a single dorsal fin, with a wide notch separating the 10 dorsal spines from the 13-14 soft rays. The spinous dorsal fin often has red stripes running along the base and a dark stripe at the outer edges.  Pectoral fins are relatively short, not quite reaching to the anal fin, which is rounded and slightly forked. 

Habitat:
Mangrove snappers inhabit both coastal and offshore waters in depths of approximately 15 - 360 feet. Juveniles typically utilize inshore waters, including seagrasses, mangrove creeks, rocks and reef areas for nursery grounds.  Adults may remain in estuaries, but the largest aggregations are found offshore.  These fishes are known to enter freshwater areas in Florida.     

Similar Species:
Mangrove snappers are similar in body shape and size to the mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis.  The two are distinguished based on the mutton snapper's having lateral spots that are set just below the dorsal fin. 

The mahogany snapper, L. mahogoni, is also similar to the mangrove snapper, but is distinguished from it based on lateral spots similar to those in the mahogany snapper, and by a strongly serrated pre-opercule.

Range:
Mangrove snappers range from Massachusetts south to Brazil including Bermuda, the Gulf of Mexico, the Antilles and the Caribbean.