June 2006

Streetwise Magazine

Damsel In Distress

 

At this time of the year the oceans are coming alive with all sorts of fish shoaling in the sheltered bays and reefs. The breeding season is upon us as the sea is starting to warm up. The ocean is around the 18-degree mark now and the fish are showing off as they look for a mate. Some species are busy building nests made from the seaweed, which they tear from the surrounding rocks.

 

 

One of the common but breathtaking sights in the Mediterranean is that of the huge shoals of Damselfish. (Chromis chromis). They can be found down to depths of about 20 metres, but tend to stay in the vicinity of the large shallow rocks. The male and female are almost indistinguishable and the female lays her eggs, which she attaches to the sheltered side of rocks. Once these eggs are laid she will guard the hoard until they hatch. They are very aggressive towards any fish that strays too close.

It is sometimes hard to watch as marauding shoals of wrasse find the egg stashes and attack in a feeding frenzy. The female darts around trying to fend off the attackers but usually to no avail.

 

 

The eggs that survive hatch into the most beautiful neon coloured juveniles, which are happy to seek the safety of the rocky shadows and caverns. It is difficult, while swimming amongst the damselfish as they protect their eggs, not to go to the aid of these “Damsels in Distress”

 

Photographs by D Graves & J Jensen

Home Courses The Team Dive Sites News Amenities Gallery Information