Cubera snapper are found throughout the western Atlantic.
Its southernmost limit at southern Brazil, cubera snapper can be found as far north as Nova Scotia, and throughout the Caribbean.
They are less common north of Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico.
Depth
Adult cubera snapper are found around reefs, ledges, and rocky bottoms.
They are typically observed between depths of 18-55 m (59-180 ft).
Juveniles are also observed around reefs, but occur in brackish waters and mangrove habitats, as well.
Reproduction
Spawning aggregations have been observed during July and August off Cuba.
Growth
The maximum size reported was a 160.0 cm (63.4 in) male cubera snapper that weighed 57.0 kg (126.5 lbs).
Diet
The primary prey of cubera snapper are crabs, fishes, and shrimp.
Source: 2008 South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, NOAA Fisheries Service (2008) SAFE Reports
Gulf of Mexico Regulations
Recreational:
Size Limit: 12” TL
Closed Season: None
Daily Bag Limit: 10 per person within the 10-snapper aggregate
Commercial:
Size Limit: 12” TL
Trip Limit: None
Annual Quota: None
Season: None
Closed Zones: An emergency rule is currently in effect that prohibits the use of bottom longline gear to harvest reef fish in water of all depths east of 85°39’ W; Jan 1-April 30 closure of “The Edges”.
South Atlantic Regulations
Recreational:
Size Limit: 12” TL
Closed Season: None
Trip Limit: 2 fish per person (not to exceed 2 per boat), for fish 30” or larger off the coast of Florida (individually or in combination with black grouper).
Gear restrictions apply
Commercial:
Size Limit: 12” TL
Trip Limit: 2 per person (not to exceed 2 per boat), for fish 30” or larger off the coast of Florida
Annual Quota: None
Closed Season: None
Gear restrictions apply
Sources: 2008 South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 2008 Commercial Fishing Regulations for Gulf of Mexico Federal Waters, 2008 Recreational Fishing Regulations for Gulf of Mexico Federal Waters
Please Note: This summary is intended to provide appropriate information to fishers about regulations and the sustainable use of marine fishery resources. This summary is for general information purposes. Fishery Regulations are subject to changes. For more information on fishery regulations consult the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at 50 CFR 622 or the NOAA Fisheries Service Southeast Regional Office Fishery Regulation website.
