Hypsypops rubicundus
The Garibaldi, the Golden State’s official marine fish, was declared in 1995 and named after General Giuseppe Garibaldi for his recognizable red shirts. Also known as the Catalina goldfish, if you ever have the pleasure of diving or snorkeling in Southern California reefs, you will see these protective fish in abundance.
They are truly a star in their own right, and California’s coastal mascot, so visible that they can be seen without setting foot in the water. Their distinctive orange color also makes Garibaldi an indicator species whose population health and stability provide divers and scientists with insights into the overall condition of reef ecosystems. Garibaldi’s grazing maintains the biodiversity that keeps these habitats balanced, so kelp and other species don’t get overrun by invasive species like urchins.
Male Garibaldi spend a lot of time decorating their nests in hopes of female visitors, cleaning and collecting to create an attractive and safe home for potential mates to lay their eggs. These fish are not currently under any threat and are listed as a species of ‘least concern’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Under the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the collection or catching of Garibaldi is prohibited.
Don’t miss next week’s issue for one of our neighboring states’ fish! For any science section stories, please contact ajw167@humboldt.edu.