Dog Snapper, Pargue

(Lutjanus jocu)

 

 

Maturity at: 32 cm in length

Max Published Size: 128 cm and 63 pounds

TnT Record: 34 pounds (unofficial)

TnT Season: Year round with peaks from June to Nov

IUCN status: Least concern

 

General Information: Adults are common around rocky or coral reefs. Young are found in estuaries and can sometimes enter rivers. Solitary and wary of others, they prefer secluded areas. They are primarily nocturnal feeders, preying on small fish, crustaceans and mollusks. This species has been known to form spawning aggregations where they are easily targeted by fishermen.  They spawn from spring to fall in the northeast Caribbean.  Flesh considered of good quality.