Lythripnus dalli
Bluebanded Goby

These brilliant red fish sport from 4 to 9 electric-blue bars, which set them apart from anything else on the reef.  Abundant in Southern California, these small fish (3/4 - 2 inches) live in rocky areas and dart for cover if approached too closely. They are far less skittish than their relative, the Zebra Goby ; thus, they are much easier to photograph.

Lens: 60mm macro
Film: Velvia
Location: San Clement Island, CA
©1998 Garry McCarthy