Where does the Garibaldi live?

It occurs in the subtropical northeastern part of the Pacific Ocean.

Do Garibaldi show nesting behavior?

Yes — male Garibaldis aggressively defend the nest site after females lay eggs.

Why is it called Garibaldi?

The English name references Italian figure Giuseppe Garibaldi and his followers, who often wore a characteristic scarlet or red shirt.

Are Garibaldi and other damselfish similar?

Garibaldi are members of the damselfish family and share behavioral traits such as males defending nest sites.

Should divers disturb Garibaldi nests?

No — male Garibaldi aggressively defend nests, so avoid disturbing nest sites.

Where to See Garibaldi Damselfish While Diving

Q: Is the Garibaldi protected?

Yes — the Garibaldi has been the official marine state fish of California since 1995 and is protected in California coastal waters from recreational and commercial fishing.

Q: Can Garibaldi be targeted by fisheries?

They are protected in California coastal waters from recreational and commercial fishing.

The Garibaldi (Hypsypops rubicundus) is a bright orange member of the damselfish family occurring in the subtropical northeastern Pacific Ocean. It has been the official marine state fish of California since 1995 and is protected in California coastal waters from recreational and commercial fishing. As with all damselfish, male Garibaldis aggressively defend the nest site after the female lays eggs.

Protected in California coastal waters from recreational and commercial fishing since being named the state marine fish in 1995.

The strongest linked planning options currently surface around destinations such as Catalina Island, San Diego and La Jolla and countries such as United States of America, Mexico, Philippines for divers building trips around garibaldi damselfish.