Move over, Nemo! California boasts its own dazzling fish stealing the spotlight. Forget the clownfish’s orange stripes, the California state fish, the garibaldi, stuns with a vibrant orange that practically glows in the kelp forests. But these scene-stealers are real heartbreakers! As juveniles, they’re a disco ball of color with sparkling electric blue spots alongside their orange. However, as they mature, they trade in their flashy attire for a solid, fiery orange – like a permanent tan after a summer spent frolicking in the kelp! The fish are also master nest protectors. The males transform into watchful guardians, their throat teeth grinding out a menacing sound to ward off any intruders who dare approach their precious orange havens.
But where can you find these fiery fish friends? Look no further than the stunning waters surrounding Catalina Island! The creatures are particularly abundant around the island, making it a prime location to witness their underwater theatrics.
Want to see these orange beauties without getting wet? Hop aboard a glass-bottom boat provided by Catalina Tours for a 45-minute tour. While aboard, you can watch the fish beneath your feet glide effortlessly above the kelp forests. You also can get a glimpse of the garibaldi flitting amongst the swaying underwater flora. Their orange bodies will be impossible to miss, even through the glass floor.
For a more immersive experience, consider a guided snorkeling tour. Dive into the cool, refreshing waters and get up close and personal with these captivating fish. Watch as they dart between colorful anemones and coral reefs. You might even spot them guarding their bright orange nests tucked away in the nooks and crannies of the underwater world.
Don’t be fooled by their striking color, though. Garibaldi may look fierce, but they’re actually quite shy. They’re primarily herbivores, munching on algae and seaweed, and they play a vital role in maintaining the health of the kelp forests.
For more information on Catalina Tours, please visit https://www.catalinatours.com/.
The next time you’re planning a trip to Catalina Island, keep your eyes peeled for these underwater celebrities. With a little help from a tour guide or a snorkeling adventure, you might just find yourself face-to-fin with California’s very own glistening gem, the garibaldi!
