Family: Pomacentridae, Damselfishes view all from this family
Description To 14" (36 cm). Deep, compressed; adults bright orange, juveniles have iridescent blue markings on head, body, and fins. 1 nostril on each side of snout. 11-13 dorsal fin spines, 12-15 rays; extends from above pectoral fin insertion to posterior of anal fin base, caudal fin forked, tips rounded. Lateral line ends under soft dorsal fin.
Habitat Reefs and kelp beds to 16 fathoms.
Range From Monterey Bay, California, to Bahia Magdalena, Baja California; rare north of Point Conception, California.
Discussion Garibaldis spawn from March through July. The male prepares the nest and guards the eggs until they hatch in 2 or 3 weeks. They feed on a variety of invertebrates. Garibaldis are protected by law in California, and may not be taken for either sport or commercial purposes.
