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Species Guide

Snapper

Pargo Snapper
  • Spanish Name: Pargo
  • English Name: Snapper
  • Scientific Name: Lutjanus spp.
  • Type of specie: Fish
  • Order: Perciformes
  • Family: Lutjanidae

Habitat

  • Natural: Coral reefs, rocky bottoms, and areas near mangroves, typically at depths of 10 to 100 meters.
  • Farming: Floating marine cages or coastal ponds with good oxygenation and stable temperature.

General Description

  • Body shape: Oval and slightly compressed, with a robust profile.
  • Distinctive features:

    Variable coloration depending on the species, typically reddish or pinkish with silvery tones, and vibrant-colored fins. Prominent mouth with sharp teeth.

Size and Weight

  • Average length: Typically between 30 and 80 cm, although some species can reach up to 1.5 meters in their natural habitat.
  • Average weight: Typically between 2 and 10 kg; some exceptional specimens can exceed 25 kg, depending on the species.

Life Cycle

Moderate growth in aquaculture, reaching market size in 1.5 to 2 years.

Adaptations

High tolerance to salinity and temperature changes, adaptable to various farming systems.

Juveniles farming systems

Raised in land-based hatcheries or recirculation systems (RAS).

Grow-out farming systems

Mainly in open-sea floating cages or coastal ponds.

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  • Geographical distribution
Tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, including the Caribbean Sea.
  • Main producing countries
Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Mexico, Brazil, Australia.
  • Commercial value

Highly valued in cuisine for its white, tender flesh and mild flavor; important in fisheries and aquaculture.

  • Additional uses

By-products: Used for fish meal and oils.

  • Common preparation methods