Snapper
Scientific name Lutjanidae
Snappers are medium to large reef fish recognised by their streamlined bodies, large mouths and often reddish, yellow or silver colouration. They are strong swimmers and commonly form schools along reef slopes and pinnacles.
Around Koh Tao, divers most often see schooling snappers hovering just above coral formations or along deeper drop-offs between 10–30 metres. Some species are brightly coloured, while others are more silver-grey with subtle markings.
Snappers are alert and wary but will often allow divers to approach slowly. Large schools may shift direction in unison, creating impressive moving walls of fish.
They are important mid-level predators within reef ecosystems and are also commercially important throughout the Indo-Pacific.
Find Snapper at...
Divemaster's tip
Approach schools slowly from below or to the side rather than directly at them. Sudden movements will cause the entire group to scatter.
Look near overhangs and deeper reef edges where they often gather in loose formations.
What do they eat?
Snappers feed on smaller fish, crustaceans and squid.
They typically hunt at dawn and dusk, using strong jaws and sharp teeth to capture fast-moving prey among reef structures.
