Black Snapper

The Black Snapper is a large, dramatic species that undergoes one of the most striking color transformations in the snapper family. Juveniles are stunningly patterned in bold black and white, with large white patches contrasting sharply against a jet-black body, creating an eye-catching piebald appearance that is extremely attractive to aquarists. As the fish matures, this juvenile pattern gradually darkens until the adult is a uniform deep charcoal-black to dark brown, sometimes with subtle lighter markings on the fins. At a maximum size of 26 inches, this is a substantial fish that requires serious aquarium space.

In the wild, Macolor niger is found throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Maldives and East Africa across to Indonesia, the Philippines, and Fiji. Juveniles are typically encountered on outer reef slopes and around coral bommies, where their bold black-and-white coloration may serve as disruptive camouflage or possibly mimicry of toxic species. Adults move to deeper reef environments, often forming loose aggregations around drop-offs, channels, and current-swept reef edges at depths of 3 to 90 meters, where they feed on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

In the aquarium, the Black Snapper is primarily acquired as a juvenile for its stunning black-and-white coloration. It is a hardy, adaptable species that accepts frozen foods readily and grows quickly. However, prospective keepers must be prepared for the dramatic color change and the fish's substantial adult size. A minimum tank of 250 gallons is necessary, and the fish's growth rate means it will outgrow smaller systems rapidly. It is not reef-safe and will consume any fish or invertebrate small enough to swallow.