What is mangrove jacks fish?

Mangrove jacks fish, also known as mangrove snappers, are a species of saltwater fish found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are a highly prized game fish due to their fighting ability and excellent taste.

Mangrove jacks are typically found in and around mangrove swamps, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters with rocky or sandy bottoms. They can grow up to 40 inches in length and weigh up to 50 pounds, although most specimens caught by anglers range from 2 to 10 pounds.

They have a distinctive red color with a yellowish underbelly, and their fins are often tinted with blue or green. They have sharp teeth and a strong jaw for crushing their prey, which includes smaller fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

Mangrove jacks are known for their aggressive and territorial behavior, as they will defend their territory and attack any intruders, including other mangrove jacks and larger fish. They are also known to venture into brackish water or freshwater in search of food.

Due to their popularity among saltwater anglers, mangrove jacks are subject to strict fishing regulations and catch limits in many areas to ensure their sustainability.