Vermilion Snapper

Rhomboplites aurorubens

AKA:
Mingo Snapper, Beeline Snapper

Managed by: SAFMC

Physical description:

Vermilion snapper have streamlined bodies, are pale to silver white below and vermilion above. Narrow yellow-gold streaks, some horozontal and others oblique, occur below the lateral line. The dorsal fin is rosy colored with a yellow margin. The caudal fin is red , but has a faint black margin.

Biological description:

The vermilion snapper is found in tropical waters of the western Atlantic from Cape Hatteras to southeastern Brazil, including Bermuda, the West Indies and the Gulf of Mexico. The preferred habitat is irregular reeflike bottom in waters ranging in depth from 80-350 feet. In some areas, the species is replaced by its close relative, the yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus, which occupies the same type of habitat. All vermilion snapper are mature at 2 years of age and 7.9" total length. Multiple spawning is characteristic of the species, taking place from April to September. Vermilion snapper can reach lengths up to 24 inches, feeding on small animals found high in the water column.

South Atlantic Federal Regulations

(For areas three-200 miles off the coasts of NC, SC, GA, and East Florida)

Commercial:

Limited access permit required.

12" Total Length (TL) size limit.
Gear restrictions apply.
Annual commercial quota of 1,100,000 lbs gutted weight was established effective October 23, 2006.

Recreational:

Size limit 12" TL effective October 23, 2006.
10 per person (in addition to the snapper bag limit). See recreational retention limits.
Gear restrictions apply.