Garibaldi [Hypsypops rubicundus]
Description
The Garibaldi is the largest member of the damselfish family, reaching sizes of up to 38 centimeters. It is characterized by its bright, iridescent orange coloration. It inhabits the rocky bottom and kelp forests of the Eastern Pacific, from Monterey Bay, California, to Baja California in Mexico. The Garibaldi is a territorial species, aggressively defending its home turf from intruders. During breeding season, males prepare nests where females lay their eggs, and the males guard these nests fiercely. Juveniles have a more vibrant color pattern, with blue spots on a reddish-orange background.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Perciformes
Perciformes
|
| Family |
Damselfishes
Pomacentridae
|
| Genus |
Hypsypops
Hypsypops
|