Fish
Garibaldi
Hypsypops rubicundus · also called garibaldi damselfish
Hovering over a carefully tended patch of red algae on a California reef, a male garibaldi glows a brilliant, unmistakable orange, guarding the nest where he hopes a female will lay her eggs.
Overview
The garibaldi, Hypsypops rubicundus, is native to rocky reefs and kelp forests of the eastern Pacific off southern California and Baja California. Its brilliant orange colour, status as the largest damselfish, and algae-gardening, egg-guarding males make it one of the most recognisable and beloved fish of the California coast.
A gardener and a guard
The male garibaldi acts as both gardener and guard, cultivating a private patch of algae as a nest and defending it fiercely against any intruder that comes near.
Status
Least Concern, common on rocky reefs and kelp forests off southern California and Baja California, and legally protected in California.
Garibaldi: common questions
Why is the garibaldi important in California?
It is California's official state marine fish, designated in 1995, and its brilliant orange colour makes it one of the most recognisable fish on the state's rocky reefs.
How does a male garibaldi attract a mate?
He clears and cultivates a patch of red algae as a nest, then guards it and courts a female to lay her eggs there before defending them until they hatch.
Are garibaldi really damselfish?
Yes, the garibaldi belongs to the damselfish family and is its largest member, reaching around 35 cm.
Where is the garibaldi found?
It is native to rocky reefs and kelp forests of the eastern Pacific off southern California and Baja California.