Moses Perch
Moses perch, Lutjanus russellii, is a reef-associated fish commonly found in tropical waters across the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans. Recognizable by its slender body and silvery-pink coloration, this snapper is highly sought after in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. Juveniles often inhabit mangrove estuaries, while adults prefer deeper offshore coral reefs. Their diet consists mainly of small fish and benthic invertebrates, making them versatile predators.
Length~30 (max 50)
WaterSalt, brackish
Water Temp24-29° F
Depth3-80 ft
- Other namesRussell's snapper, Moses snapper, Fingermark bream, Russell's sea-perch, Moses seaperch
- Length~30 (max 50)
- WaterSalt, brackish
- Water Temp24-29° F
- Depth3-80 ft
Popular lures for Moses Perch
Regulation for Moses Perch
- SeasonOpen from August 16, to July 14
- Bag limit4
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits>70 (1 fish)
- Max size-
- Min size35 cm
- MeasurementTotal length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Moses perch favors coral and rocky reefs, usually at moderate depths
- Juveniles are commonly found in estuarine environments, including mangroves and the lower reaches of rivers
- They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a diet of small fish and various invertebrates found near the seabed
- Preferring deeper waters as they mature, these snappers are typically more abundant in areas with complex reef structures
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Juveniles inhabit shallower estuarine waters before transitioning to deeper reefs as they grow
- Moses perch reach maturity as they increase in size and move to offshore reefs
- Spawning typically occurs in warmer seasons when water temperatures rise
- During spawning, these fish exhibit strong site fidelity, often returning to specific reefs to reproduce annually