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OK for the environment - enjoy in moderation

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Details About Yellowtail snapper

yellowtail snapper

a.k.a. Ocyurus chrysurus, palu-i'usama

Health Details

  • Adults can safely eat more than 4 meals per month
  • But due to moderate mercury levels we recommend:
    • Kids age 6-12 should eat no more than 3 meals per month
    • Kids up to age 6 should eat no more than 2 meals per month

More about seafood and health »

Eco Details

Yellowtail snapper is thought to be more abundant than its better-known cousin, the red snapper. But no formal assessment of its population status has been undertaken; whether it is overfished is unknown.

Snappers are usually caught with hook-and-line and bottom longlines, which can result in significant bycatch of other reef fish species.

Nutritional Information

Serving = 100 g of raw edible food, wild species.

Amount per serving
Calories 100 g
Total Fat 1.34 g
Total Protein 20.5 g
Omega-3 0.31 g
Cholesterol 37 mg
Sodium 64 mg

Source: USDA

More About Yellowtail snapper

The yellowtail snapper is a bright yellow with blue-violet sides, which makes it an attractive aquarium fish, as well as a commercial and sport-fishing species. It can reach a maximum of 2.5 feet, or 76 cm. Yellowtail snappers often form schools in subtropical waters and have been raised in captivity.

Commercial Sources

Yellowtail snapper are found in the western Atlantic, from Massachusetts to southern Brazil. They are common in the Caribbean.

The main sources of yellowtail snapper are Brazil and Mexico.

Capture Methods

Yellowtail snapper come from marine fisheries, not fish farms. They are primarily caught with beach seines. Additional types of fishing gear include hooks-and-lines, traps and gillnets.

Buying & Eating Guide

Flavor and Texture

Snapper has a firm texture, with lean, white flesh and a sweet flavor.

Buying Tips

Snapper is marketed fresh or frozen. Look for fish with clear, red eyes. Skin is brilliant red fading to pinkish silver. Commercial catch is usually under 10 pounds.

This guide is produced in collaboration with the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Banner image from "Endangered Ocean" © 2007 Marian Osher.