Common name: rubia

General information

The Yellowtail Snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. Known for its distinctive yellow stripe that runs the full length of its body and tail, this species is a favorite among aquarists for its beauty and relatively peaceful nature.

In the wild, Yellowtail Snappers form large schools and are often found around coral reefs and rocky substrates where they feed on a variety of prey including small fish, crustaceans, and worms.

Care

Yellowtail Snappers are moderately easy to care for but require a spacious tank to accommodate their swimming needs. They are best kept in a fish-only or a fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) setup due to their potential to nip at small invertebrates and corals. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and marine fish flesh will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In their natural habitat, Yellowtail Snappers spawn in large groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but environmental cues such as temperature and lighting changes can sometimes trigger spawning behavior.

Habitat

Yellowtail Snappers are native to the Western Atlantic, from Massachusetts to southeastern Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. They are typically found in clear, shallow waters around coral reefs, often at depths ranging from 3 to over 100 meters.