Marine Life

Garibaldi
(Hypsypops rubicunda)
Courtesy of Tom Haight

(Adult)

(Juvenile)

The Garibaldi holds the title of "State Marine Fish." It's bright orange coloration leaves little doubt when you catch a glimpse of it. Once hunted to alarmingly low numbers, this species has rebounded and then some, often becoming a pest while diving. It's juveniles bear electric blue spots to keep the highly territorial adults from constantly harassing them. They can be found in rocky areas from the intertidal zone to as deep as 100 feet and grow to about 14 inches. Garibaldi feed on bottom-dwelling invertebrates such as bryozoans, worms, shrimps, crabs and sponges. The Garibaldi is not afraid of much and has been known to even nip at divers if they enter its space during the spring mating season.

Following is a short video clip of garibaldi in their native habitat, courtesy of Tom Haight Marine Wildlife Photography. If the video clip does not automatically display, you may be prompted to download a plug-in that will enable you to view the video file.

    (3.1MB .avi file)