Snapper - Yellow

Widespread West-Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean, ranging west to the Maldives, and to subtropical zones as larval expatriates. Mainly coastal habitats, often in silty conditions, but also in outer reef lagoons where on open substrates with remote coral-heads. Occurs singly or in small groups. Colour usually yellow with a black bar over head and a second bar from tip of spinous dorsal fin to anus, latter broadening with age, often extending over tall end of body. Occasionally body all black with yellow soft dorsal, anal and caudal fins. Juveniles appear to mimic the venomous Meiacanthus sabre-tooth blennies and are grey in Java. Length to 25cm.