We evaluate the taxonomic diversity, geographic distribution, life history, ecology and fisheries of snooks (genus Centropomus), which share many features of their life cycle and habitat use that make them vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic stress in coastal ecosystems. The snook taxonomy seems stable. These species are distributed in all mangrove estuaries. Although spawn in marine habitats, the larvae are dispersed within estuarine habitats, whose areas are decreasing or have a degradation of environmental quality. All species support artisanal fisheries and trials are being initiated small-scale fish farming. However, there is no formal assessment of the stocks of these species, so data collection, information sharing and evaluation techniques should facilitate socioeconomic development of fisheries. No developed recreational fisheries for these species, however, should consider the catch and release of individuals as models to improve conservation and economic development of fishermen. Assessing the state of the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature reveals that six Centropomus species occurring in tropical eastern Pacific are classified as least concern species. Snooks probably face significant challenges anthropogenic through the loss and alteration of habitat, and overfishing. The management and protection policies should be clear and comprehensive, and together with conservation of estuaries and mangroves benefit both snook and other commercially important inshore fish species.