Garibaldi Damselfish, scientifically known as Hypsypops rubicunda, is a bright orange fish in the damselfish family.
It’s also known as the Catalina Goldfish or Marine Goldfish. This fish lives in the northeastern part of the Pacific Ocean, which has a subtropical climate.
The name “Garibaldi” comes from an Italian General named Giuseppe Garibaldi, because his followers wore red shirts similar to the fish’s color.
Garibaldi Damselfish defends its territory and mostly eats attached invertebrates. It has been raised in captivity before and is safe for reef aquariums.
Garibaldi Damselfish Interesting Facts
- Named after Italian General Giuseppe Garibaldi due to its bright orange color, resembling his followers’ red shirts
- Lives in subtropical marine environments near rocky areas and kelp forests from California to Mexico
- Grows up to 11.8 inches (30.0 centimeters) long and has a lifespan of around 20 years
- Oviparous reproduction; males create nests, guard eggs, and provide oxygen until they hatch
Garibaldi Damselfish Habitat
Garibaldi Damselfish lives in the eastern central Pacific region, from Monterey Bay in California to southern Baja California and Guadalupe Island in Mexico.
This fish is found in marine environments, specifically around coral reefs.
It’s also found near rocky areas with clear water and is often found close to small caves and crevices or among kelp.
Garibaldi Damselfish doesn’t migrate and is found at depths of 0 to 30 meters.
It thrives in subtropical conditions, and its habitat ranges from 37°N to 27°N latitude and 122°W to 114°W longitude.
| Water Temperature: | Unknown |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Garibaldi Damselfish Physical Characteristics
Size: 11.8 inches (30.0 centimeters)
Garibaldi Damselfish grows up to 11.8 inches (30.0 centimeters) long. This fish has a long lifespan and can live for around 20 years.
It has 12 dorsal spines, 16 to 17 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 13 to 14 anal soft rays.
Garibaldi Damselfish Reproduction
Garibaldi Damselfish reproduces by laying eggs and forms distinct pairs during breeding.
Males prepare a sheltered area for their nest. Females then lay eggs in that nest. Males guard and provide oxygen to the eggs.
Garibaldi Damselfish Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Hypsypops |
| Scientific Name: | Hypsypops rubicunda |
| Also Known As: | Garibaldi Damselfish, Catalina Goldfish, Marine Goldfish |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |