The Bluestripe Snapper (Lutjanus kasmira), also known as the Bluebanded Snapper or Common Bluestripe Snapper, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Lutjanidae. It was first formally described in 1801 by the German naturalist Marcus Bloch. The specific name kasmira refers to the Kashmir region, though the species does not occur there and the name is likely a misattribution.

Distribution and Habitat

The Bluestripe Snapper is widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian Islands and French Polynesia, north to southern Japan and south to northern Australia. It has also been introduced to the Hawaiian Islands where it has become established. It inhabits coral reefs at depths from 1 to 100 meters. It is commonly found in large schools on reef slopes and in lagoons.

Physical Description

The Bluestripe Snapper reaches a maximum total length of 40 cm (15.7 in). The body is bright yellow with four to six vivid blue horizontal stripes running along the body from the head to the caudal fin. The fins are yellow with the dorsal and anal fins having narrow blue margins. The dorsal fin has 10 spines and 14-15 soft rays while the anal fin has 3 spines and 7 soft rays. The head is relatively small with a terminal mouth and large eyes.

Diet and Feeding

The Bluestripe Snapper is a carnivorous predator that feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. It often hunts in schools, with individuals cooperating to herd prey. In the aquarium it accepts a variety of meaty foods including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped fish, and squid.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species is highly social and is typically found in large schools during the day. At night the schools disperse and individuals forage individually. It is generally peaceful toward other fish. Reproduction involves pelagic spawning where eggs and sperm are released into the water column. The eggs are pelagic and hatch into larvae that drift with the currents.

Aquarium Care

The Bluestripe Snapper requires a tank of at least 100 gallons with plenty of swimming space. It should be kept in groups of at least 4-5 individuals. It is generally reef-safe with caution as it may eat small fish and shrimp. Water temperature should be maintained between 72-82 F (22-28 C) with pH 8.1-8.4 and dKH 8-12.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.