Color generally red, with yellow caudal, anal, and pelvic fins; distinctive and prominent dark comma-shapped blotch at the base of the pectoral fins; which gives the fish its common name; anal fin rounded; no black spot on side underneath dorsal fin.

Adults OFFSHORE near cintinental shelf.

Common to 20 inches, larger individuals seeking deeper waters.

Sometimes marketed as red snapper; feeds on smaller fish.