Introduction
The Papuan Black Snapper, scientifically known as Lutjanus goldiei, is a fish species belonging to the Snapper family, Lutjanidae. This species of Snapper is known for its striking dark coloration and resilience.
Conservation Status
The Papuan Black Snapper is currently listed as ‘Not Evaluated’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This signifies that there has been no comprehensive assessment of the fish’s survival status in the wild.
Statistics
| Attribute | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 35 cm | 20 – 55 cm |
| Weight | 5 kg | 2 – 10 kg |
| Lifespan | 8 – 10 years | N/A |
Distribution
The Papuan Black Snapper is predominantly found in the waters of Papua New Guinea and parts of the Indonesian archipelago.
Habitats
This species of Snapper is a strictly marine species, found in coastal waters and estuaries. They are known to reside in a depth of 20 to 60 metres and function in temperatures between 24 – 28°C.
When and Where to See
The Papuan Black Snapper has a tendency to inhabit shady and covered underwater habitats such as reefs and shipwrecks, especially during the day. They are most likely to be seen from the late morning to the late afternoon.
Best Fishing Locations
- Piombino Channel
- Lazarev Bay
- Civilai Harbor
- Spice Islands
- Brown River
- Arafura Sea
- Start Point
- Agwi Lagoon
- Jayapura Bay
- Port Moresby
When trying to locate Papuan Black Snapper, look out for rocky structures or underwater terrain such as shipwrecks, as these provide the ideal habitat for this fish.
How to Catch
Fishermen have found the most success in catching Papuan Black Snapper using live bait, especially prawns or small fish. The best time of day to catch them is during the early morning or late afternoon.
Identification Guide
The Papuan Black Snapper has a long, streamlined body with a distinctly pointed snout and a large mouth equipped with sharp teeth. It is easily distinguishable by its dark black or brown color, which is more vibrant in males.
Additional Information
The Papuan Black Snapper’s diet primarily consists of crustaceans, other small fish, and cephalopods. Potential predators include larger fish, water birds, and of course, humans.
References and Further Reading
For more detailed information on the Papuan Black Snapper, the following references are recommended: