They often hide in coral and, as their name implies, can puff up by sucking air or water into their abdomen. This balloon effect causes them to become more than a mouthful to would-be predators. They also have tough skin, with no scales. Coral polyps, mollusks, crustaceans, crabs and sea urchins, which they crush with strong beaks. Young resemble adults somewhat.
Snappers typically have a notched tail with a triangular-shaped head.
They are named for their characteristic snap which occurs once they are taken off a line or hook. They have well developed teeth and are capable of inflicting injury on uninformed fishermen. Most snappers have large eyes and a broken color pattern. Tarpon are silvery in coloration. They have a deep body with an upturned mouth for feeding above them.