Species profile
Dog Snapper
Lutjanus jocu
Identify Dog Snapper (Lutjanus jocu) from a photo: try it free in your browser, or get unlimited IDs, no sign-up, with the CatchRules app. Plus current fishing rules across 1 jurisdiction.
At a glance
Dog Snapper (Lutjanus jocu) is an IUCN Data Deficient bony-fish species regulated in 2 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
Bag limits are uniform at 10 per angler across the 2 regulating jurisdictions.
Confirmed by 89 research-grade iNaturalist observations, with Florida, Texas, and New Jersey the top jurisdictions by observation count.
Notable details
- Named for their prominent canine teeth, dog snappers can deliver a surprisingly powerful bite.
- A pale triangular patch below the eye is the most reliable field mark for identification.
- Can reach 35 inches in length and weigh over 25 pounds at maximum size.
- More solitary than most snappers, adults typically patrol reef edges and ledges alone.
- Found on coral reefs from Florida to Brazil, favoring depths with rocky ledge structure.
Where Dog Snapper are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Dog Snapper
Background
The dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu) is a species of snapper native to the Atlantic Ocean. It is a commercially important species, and is popular for display in public aquaria. It is also known as the dogtooth snapper, pargue, or snuggletooth snapper.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Dog Snapper article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Dog Snapper?
Dog Snapper (Lutjanus jocu) is an IUCN Data Deficient bony-fish species regulated in 2 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
What is the scientific name for Dog Snapper?
Dog Snapper is Lutjanus jocu.
Is Dog Snapper regulated for fishing?
Yes — Dog Snapper has fishing regulations in 1 U.S. state and/or Canadian province tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify Dog Snapper?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules app for iPhone or Android — on-device identification recognizes Dog Snapper along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.