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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: bluestripe snapper

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Body is bright yellow with four bright blue stripes running horizontally along the side.  The belly and underside of the head is white with many faint greyish stripes. All fins are yellow. (Allen 1985)

Size: max size 35 cm (TL); matures around 20-25 cm (TL)

Native Range: Marine; Tropical Pacific. Widespread from the Marquesas and Line Islands to East Africa, and from Australia to southern Japan. (Allen 1985)

Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Ecology: This fish inhabits coral reefs at depths greater than 15 m. Frequently found in large aggregations by day, and at night feeds mainly on crustaceans (Allen 1985; Randall 1995). Feeds on fishes, shrimp, crabs, stomatopods, cephalopods and planktonic crustaceans. (Allen 1985).

Means of Introduction: Intentionally stocked in the 1950s for recreational and commercial fishing purposes.  

Status: Established.

References: (click for full references)

Allen, G.R. 1985. FAO Species Catalogue. Vol 6. Snappers of the World. An annotated and illustrated catalogue of lutjanid species known to date. FAO Fish Synop. (125)Vol6:208p.

Maciolek, J.A. 1984. Exotic Fishes in Hawaii and Other Islands of Oceania, p. 131-161, in W.R. Courtaney, Jr. and J.R. Stauffer, Jr. (eds). Distribution, Biology, and Management of Exotic Fishes.John Hopkins Press University Press, Baltimore, MD.

Randall, J.E. 1995. Fishes of Oman. University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu.

Tilmant, J.T. 1999. Management of nonindigenous aquatic fish in the U.S. National Park System. National Park Service. 50 pp.

Other Resources:

Global Invasive Species Database Factsheet

Author: Pam Fuller, and Denise R. Gregoire-Lucente

Peer Review Date: 9/17/2015

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.