How to Identify Bluestripe Snapper

To identify Bluestripe Snapper (Lutjanus kasmira), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically bright yellow to golden-yellow, sometimes with a reddish tinge dorsally. Four prominent, bright blue longitudinal stripes run along the sides, extending from the head to the caudal fin base. The fins are yellow. Juveniles may have a black spot at the base of the caudal fin, which fades with age.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Four bright blue longitudinal stripes on a yellow body., Relatively deep body., Large eyes., Pointed snout.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10 spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Slightly forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long pectoral fins, typically reaching the anus.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 7-8 soft rays. Pelvic fins are relatively short.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripes

   The most definitive feature is the bright yellow body with four distinct, unbroken blue horizontal stripes. No other snapper species in its range has this exact combination.

2. 2

   Fin Count

   Count the dorsal fin spines (10) and soft rays (13-15), and anal fin spines (3) and soft rays (7-8). These counts are consistent for L. kasmira.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Observe the moderately deep, compressed body, which is typical for many snapper species but combined with the unique coloration, aids in identification.

4. 4

   Schooling Behavior

   Bluestripe Snappers are almost always found in schools, often large ones, which can be a good indicator of the species in its natural habitat.

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