The brightly colored and feisty Garibaldi (Hypsypops rubicundus) is our March Fish of the Month!
Survey Regions: Garibaldis are found in subtropical waters of California, part of REEF's PAC region, and can also be seen on the west coast of Baja California, which is part of the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) survey region. You can view the Garibaldi distribution reports from the REEF database here: PAC region and TEP region
Size: They are the largest members of the Damselfish family, growing up to 15 inches.
Identifying Features: Garibaldis have a uniform bright orange body with a heart-shaped tail. As juveniles, they are covered with electric blue spots, which disappear with age.
Fun Facts: Garibaldis inhabit kelp forests and rocky reefs. Adults, especially egg-guarding males, are known to be extremely territorial. In fact, after spawning, the male Garibaldi will chase the female away almost immediately to prevent her from eating the eggs. The Garibaldi is also the state marine fish of California.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by Janna Nichols.