Garibaldi, Hypsypops rubicundus

Who would expect to see such a beautiful brightly colored fish among the rocky reef and kelp forest in California's cold coastal waters. The Garibaldi seems out of place amongst the silver, black, and grey fish that frequent this habitat. Like a tropical reef fish escaped from an aquarium the Garibaldi fiercely protects its territory throwing caution and camouflage out the window. And like other damsel fish the juvenile garibaldi manages to outshine and out compete the adults for the title of 'worst camouflage in the kelp.'

These fish were always a pleasant sight diving and snorkeling among the California reefs. And I wasn't surprised to see that the newly opened GA aquarium chose a garibaldi for its mascot, cleverly naming it Deepo, a cross between the ever popular Neemo and its main benefactor Home Depot! Little do the kids know that they will have to travel 3000 miles if they want to see their new favorite fish in the wild. Submit Images and Footage to Shutterstock and make money! Or check out my underwater photos for sale at www.daimarsphotos.com