Yellow Goatfish and Yellowtail Snapper

Diving in Key West presents travelers both young and old with the opportunity to see some of the most intriguing and colorful species of fish in all the oceans of the world. Due to the warm temperatures of the waters and the extensive presence of coral reefs, the Caribbean waters are the ideal habitat for aquatic life of all kinds. Diving in Key West is the only way to see creatures at play in a way that is deeply moving and personal. The adventure and the excitement that comes from sharing the water with the most vibrant of the fish in the sea will create memories beneath the ocean that are guaranteed to last a lifetime. Taking a tour to some of the most active snorkeling sites in this region introduces explorers to active fish varieties that will bring your senses to life. Two of the most populous fish in the waters that keep divers and snorkelers coming back for more are the Yellow Goatfish and the Yellowtail Snapper.

The Yellow Goatfish is a species that often goes by several different names, including the Yellow Saddle or the Gold Saddle. These fish are of such interest due to their unique bodies that are designed for feeding. They have two whiskers that extend from their chins, allowing them to stir the bottom of the ocean floor as they search for prey on which to feed. They typically eat smaller fish, hunting by themselves at night and traveling in schools during the day. The majority of their body displays a pale pink color with a bright yellow strip that extends from the back of their eye to the beginning of their tail.

The Yellowtail Snapper is a fish that loves the shallow waters around the coral reefs in the Caribbean. They are extremely common visitors to divers and snorkelers. While they display great beauty, they are also a favorite culinary dish as well. Yellowtail Snappers travel in large schools and use the reefs as their spawning grounds during the summer months and early into fall. Their body is a shiny blue and green hue that displays a very particular size and shape. Their name comes from the brilliant golden stripe that extends horizontally over the length of their body. Found in waters of up to 120 feet deep, they feed on crabs, shrimp, worms, and smaller fish.