Garibaldi

A garibaldi at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Some species proudly represent great institutions, locations, or people. Such symbolism does not exempt them from odd corners. The garibaldi of the California coast suffers such a fate. 

A very conspicuous garibaldi in the Amber Forest 
at the Aquarium of the Pacific

As California’s state marine fish, the garibaldi gains a share of fame promoted by its distinct appearance. The scientific term for the fish accurately describes the animal’s high forehead (Hypsypops) and bright orange color (rubicunda). The gaudy hue reflects the garibaldi’s lineage. Like another orange fish, the clownfish, the garibaldi is a proud member of the damselfish family. While it never gains the stripes of its more popular relative, the garibaldi displays additional showy coloration as a juvenile. When young, the fish sports neon blue markings over an orange background. The color affords no camouflage in the animal’s home. Nor does it need to. The juvenile’s bright markings alert older fish of its status as a youngster, keeping them from harassing it. By contrast, the bright color of the adults apparently alerts other animals of the fish’s other distinguishing characteristic.

A fleece juvenile garibaldi

Besides its distinct coloration, the garibaldi exhibits infamous territorial behavior. Any creature daring to approach the fish’s space will be driven away with chicken-like clucks and sharp nips. Attackable creatures include other fish, sea stars, limpets, and divers. Since garibaldi will not flee from fishermen, they require legal protection. The reason for the territorialism relies on the next generation. Male garibaldi must protect a bed of red algae for the females to nest in. Compromised nests could doom the next generation, so males guard with extra gusto, only fleeing from harbor seals. 

A fleece garibaldi

Garibaldi, despite their notable coloration and behavior, remain in odd corners for a number of reasons. While they are one of the most colorful fish of the eastern Pacific Ocean, they lack the brilliant patterns of most tropical fish. Additionally, garibaldi are small, no longer than fourteen inches. As such, they lack the stature of other kelp bed animals, such as giant sea bass or sharks. Besides their ridiculously territorial natures, the fish do not show unusual or notable behaviors. Still, they bring a flash of color to otherwise dull kelp forest exhibits, and remain a pretty, if overlooked, addition to any public aquarium.