Habitat: Marine, reef-associated. Lives in open-water, midway between the surface and the top of the reef. Young frequently encountered in turtle-grass beds. Depth range 0 - 180 m. Natural History Notes: While it feeds at night, it is not restricted to eating nocturnally as are certain other snappers. Feeds on small herrings and other little fishes, shrimps, crabs, stomatopods and annelids. Also on planktonic organisms, specially when young. Alone or in loose schools. Spawning occurs throughout the year, with peaks at different times in different areas. Characteristics: Prominent mid-lateral yellow stripe begining on snout and broadening as it passes posteriorly on body. Midlateral stripe, most of the caudal peduncle, all of the caudal fin yellow. Pale spots and blotches above midbody. Deeply-forked tail.