RED SEA

Marine Life Guide

1. Sharks

Oceanic whitetip shark / Longimanus – Carcharhinus longimanus

Distribution and habitat: A true open ocean shark with worldwide distribution in tropical and warm temperate oceans. It is associated more with deep waters beyond continental and island shelves than with coastal reefs. Although it usually stays in the upper 150 m close to the surface, it has been recorded diving deeper than 1,000 m. In the Red Sea, it can be encountered particularly around offshore reefs and deep walls.

Interesting fact — The "longimanus" name comes from its long fins: The scientific name longimanus literally means "long-handed." Very long, broad, and round-tipped pectoral fins are the most characteristic feature of the species. White spots at the fin tips aid in identification even from a distance.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Instead of sticking to the reef wall, occasionally look out into the open blue. The longimanus usually cruises slowly and confidently near the surface. It may approach the diver group out of curiosity several times and swim in wide circles.

Note for divers: When encountering this species, it is important not to separate from the group, maintain a vertical and controlled position in open water, not follow the animal, and not swim toward it. In particular, the ascent procedure to the boat should be controlled rather than waiting for long periods at the surface.

Note for photographers: Use a wide angle instead of waiting for it to come very close. Seeing the white-tipped broad pectoral fins together with the open blue provides the frame that best represents the species. Rather than backing away as the animal approaches, remaining steady and controlled provides more natural images.

Scientific reference: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). FAO species catalogue. Vol. 4. Sharks of the world. FAO; Froese, R., & Pauly, D. (Eds.). FishBase: Carcharhinus longimanus.

Scalloped hammerhead – Sphyrna lewini

Distribution and habitat: Distributed worldwide in tropical and warm temperate seas. It uses a wide habitat ranging from coastal areas to the open ocean and has been recorded in waters deeper than 1,000 m. The Red Sea is within its natural distribution range.

Interesting fact — The hammer-shaped head is not just for appearance: The broad cephalofoil separates the eyes farther apart, increasing the visual field, and allows the electroreceptors beneath the head to be spread over a larger surface. This enables it to detect weak electrical fields produced by prey in particular at the bottom or outside its field of vision.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look particularly at the outer edges of deep walls and reef points facing the open ocean. While scalloped hammerheads can be seen individually, they may form schools in some areas. Schools often appear several tens of meters away from the reef and at the edge of the diver's field of vision.

Note for divers: Swimming out into the open ocean in pursuit of the hammerhead is one of the most common mistakes. Rather than drifting too far from the reef, maintain your depth level, allow the animal to approach you, and maintain proper positioning.

Note for photographers: A shot from the side shows the width of the cephalofoil; a slightly approaching individual provides the most striking view of the hammer-shaped head. For distant schools, a medium focal length may be more useful than a wide angle.

Scientific reference: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). Sharks of the world. FAO; Froese, R., & Pauly, D. (Eds.). FishBase: Sphyrna lewini.

Pelagic thresher shark – Alopias pelagicus

Distribution and habitat: Distributed in tropical open waters of the Indo-Pacific; the Red Sea is included in its distribution. It is a pelagic-oceanic species and while generally seen in the upper 150 m, it has been recorded at depths of approximately 300 m.

Interesting fact — It uses its tail as a hunting weapon: The upper tail lobe is almost as long as the rest of its body. Thresher sharks can deliver very fast strikes with their tails into schools of small fish, stunning them, and then capture the incapacitated fish.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for a silhouette moving slowly with a long tail at the outer edge of deep reef plateaus or around cleaning stations. The pelagic thresher generally does not approach divers as closely as the longimanus; it is more inclined to maintain distance.

Note for divers: Swimming toward the animal most often shortens the encounter. Stay still and do not cause it to change its course.

Note for photographers: The most important goal is to capture the entire tail lobe in the frame. Framing the fish too closely loses the anatomical feature that makes this species special.

Scientific reference: Compagno, L. J. V. (2001). Sharks of the world: An annotated and illustrated catalogue of shark species known to date. Volume 2. FAO; Froese, R., & Pauly, D. (Eds.). FishBase: Alopias pelagicus.

Grey reef shark – Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos

Distribution and habitat: Common in tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific. It is particularly associated with reef outer edges, deep drop-offs, atoll passages, and areas with strong currents. Recorded at depths of approximately 1–275 m.

Interesting fact — Strong currents are not a disadvantage for them: Grey reef sharks are frequently seen at reef points with strong currents. The nutrient and fish density carried by the current transforms these areas into important feeding grounds.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Several individuals may be seen patrolling the reef edge against the current. Pay particular attention to the outer edges of protrusions where schooling fish concentrate.

Note for divers: Staying fixed at the reef edge provides better observation than approaching rapidly or cutting off the shark's path. The shark's swimming line should not be anticipated and blocked beforehand.

Note for photographers: The black-edged tail fin is valuable in species identification. This feature appears very distinctive in slightly rear-angle frames.

Scientific source: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). Sharks of the world. FAO; FishBase: Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos.

Whitetip reef shark – Triaenodon obesus

Distribution and habitat: It has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution ranging from the Red Sea to the Pacific. It is closely associated with reefs; particularly found in caves, under coral protrusions, sandy openings, and channels. Most observations are made at depths of approximately 8–40 m.

Interesting fact — It can do what many other sharks cannot: During daytime hours it can rest completely motionless inside caves or on sand. It is not dependent on continuous swimming for respiration; it can pass water over its gills through mouth and gill movements.

Behavior — what should divers look for? During the day, look at cave entrances and sandy areas under rock protrusions. At night, the same individuals can hunt more actively over the reef.

Note for divers: Do not attempt to drive the resting animal out of the cave. Observing from a few meters away both preserves its behavior and provides a longer encounter.

Note for photographers: Try to show the white tips on the first dorsal and tail fins in the same frame. Shots taken from very low angles of individuals resting on sand are impressive.

Scientific source: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). Sharks of the world. FAO; FishBase: Triaenodon obesus.

Blacktip reef shark – Carcharhinus melanopterus

Distribution and habitat: Found in shallow tropical reef areas, reef flats, lagoons, and nearshore waters in the Indo-Pacific. The ability to enter very shallow water is one of the characteristic features of this species.

Interesting fact — The shallow-water shark: Unlike large pelagic sharks, the blacktip reef shark can comfortably navigate in just a few meters of water or even shallower. Young individuals in particular can use shallow and sheltered areas.

Behavior — what should divers look for? Pay attention to individuals patrolling parallel to the shore over reef tops and in shallow lagoons. They can be seen singly or in small groups.

Note for divers: This is a species that can be encountered even with snorkeling or surface observation before a dive, rather than requiring a full scuba dive.

Note for photographers: The light-colored band located just below the black tip of the first dorsal fin is an excellent diagnostic characteristic.

Scientific source: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). Sharks of the world. FAO; FishBase: Carcharhinus melanopterus.

Silky shark – Carcharhinus falciformis

Distribution and habitat: A species with worldwide distribution in tropical oceans, associated with open water and island shelf margins. Records from the Red Sea exist. It can be seen in the open ocean, around deep reefs and the edges of island slopes.

Interesting fact — Can follow tuna schools: Silky sharks in the open ocean are frequently associated with tuna schools. This is because they share the same pelagic prey resources.

Behavior — what should divers look for? Pay attention to slender-bodied sharks swimming fast and smoothly in open water away from the reef wall. When multiple individuals are present, their movements can be faster and more agile than longimanus.

Note for divers: Since it is a pelagic species, depth and distance from the reef can increase without being noticed. While focused on the animal, computer and reef reference should not be neglected.

Note for photographers: Long, sickle-shaped pectoral fins and slender body are well visible from the side profile. Photographing against blue background rather than reef better conveys the species' open ocean character.

Scientific source: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). Sharks of the world. FAO; FishBase: Carcharhinus falciformis.

Tiger shark – Galeocerdo cuvier

Distribution and habitat: Shows worldwide distribution in tropical and warm temperate seas; the Red Sea is within its natural distribution range. It can utilize habitats from nearshore to open ocean and has been recorded at depths of up to approximately 800 m.

Interesting fact — Young ones have more distinct stripes: The dark vertical bands that give the tiger shark its name are very distinctive in young individuals. As age progresses, the stripes can fade, and in very large adults they may not be noticed at first glance.

Behavior — what should divers look for? The tiger shark does not follow a tight route over the reef but rather patrols a wide area. Large body, broad head, and heavy yet powerful swimming are the first diagnostic clues.

Note for divers: An encounter should be considered rare and special. Staying in the group without intercepting the animal's movement path and allowing it to approach is the most appropriate way to observe.

Note for photographers: Side profile best shows the vertical bands on the body. For very large individuals, using a wide angle to show scale by including the reef or another diver in the distance can be effective.

Scientific source: Compagno, L. J. V. (1984). Sharks of the world. FAO; FishBase: Galeocerdo cuvier.

2. Rays and mantas

When we consider the Sharm–Ras Mohammed–Tiran route together with BDE, both pelagic mantas and bottom rays living in sandy-reef transitions can be sought in this group. Particularly for mantas and eagle rays, it is necessary to look to the open blue, while for species like Taeniura lymma, one should look to the bottom.

Oceanic manta – Mobula birostris

Distribution and habitat: A large pelagic species with wide distribution in tropical and subtropical oceans. Associated with open sea, oceanic islands, deep reef edges, and productive plankton areas. Also recorded in the Red Sea; encounter probability on offshore oceanic reefs like BDE is particularly significant.

Interesting fact — Belly pattern like a fingerprint: The distribution of black spots and marks on the belly surface of mantas differs from individual to individual. These patterns allow the same individual to be recognized again years later in photo-identification studies.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look occasionally at the open water rather than just at the reef wall. A manta usually approaches using its pectoral fins with slow and wide movements. During feeding, the mouth may be open and the cephalic lobes spread to direct plankton into the mouth.

Note for divers: Do not cut across the animal's path, do not swim over it, and especially do not approach from above the surface. Staying still and allowing the manta to choose its own distance will prolong the encounter.

Note for photographers: Be sure to capture the belly surface when it passes below or beside you. If possible, the entire belly pattern, gill slits, and body edges should be visible in a single frame; this photograph is valuable not only aesthetically but also scientifically.

Scientific source: Marshall, A. D., Compagno, L. J. V., & Bennett, M. B. (2009). Redescription of the genus Manta with resurrection of Manta alfredi. Zootaxa, 2301, 1–28; Marshall, A. D., et al. (2022). Mobula birostris. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Reef manta – Mobula alfredi

Distribution and habitat: Distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific and within the natural range of the Red Sea. More associated with coasts and reefs compared to oceanic mantas; can be seen around coral and rocky reefs, tropical islands, bays, and cleaning stations. FishBase records the species in approximately 0–120 m depth range.

Interesting fact — May return to the same cleaning station: Reef mantas can show high site fidelity to specific areas. Repeated returns to stations where cleaner fish remove parasites and dead skin facilitate photo-identification and long-term monitoring studies.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? If you see a manta making large circles repeatedly over a specific point on the reef, it may be cleaning behavior. In such a case, the animal is not swimming randomly but may be using a particular station.

Note for divers: Do not sit on the cleaning station or block the manta's passage corridor. Withdrawing a few meters often allows for much longer observation.

Note for photographers: Photograph the spots on the belly surface. Also capturing the manta in the same frame with cleaner fish carries more behavioral information than a beautiful manta photograph alone.

Spotted eagle ray – Aetobatus ocellatus

Distribution and habitat: Distributed in tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific. Found at reef outer edges, lagoons, sandy areas, and coastal regions facing open water. The Red Sea is within its range.

Interesting fact — Crushes shelled prey almost like breaking nuts: Its teeth are not individual sharp teeth but powerful crushing plates. This structure is suited for breaking the hard structures of bivalves, gastropods, and other shelled organisms.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Rather than gliding long periods like a manta, watch for rays moving over sandy areas or reef outer edges with powerful wing movements. Can be seen alone or in small groups.

Note for divers: Do not swim directly over an individual that has started feeding on sand. If you maintain some distance, you can observe its nose probing the sand.

Note for photographers: Light from above brings out the white spots beautifully. Shooting from directly above or from a slight diagonal angle from behind are among the best angles for documenting the back pattern.

Scientific source: White, W. T., Last, P. R., Naylor, G. J. P., Jensen, K., & Caira, J. N. (2010). Clarification of Aetobatus taxonomy and nomenclature. Zootaxa; Last, P. R., White, W. T., de Carvalho, M. R., Séret, B., Stehmann, M. F. W., & Naylor, G. J. P. (Eds.). (2016). Rays of the World. CSIRO Publishing.

Blue-spotted stingray – Taeniura lymma

Distribution and habitat: Has a broad Indo-Pacific distribution from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. Shallow coral reefs, sandy areas, reef flats, and coral-sand transitions are typical habitats.

Interesting fact — Blue spots are not merely ornamental: The bright electric blue spots and blue lines on the tail are the most distinctive characters distinguishing this species from other small rays. This striking coloration may also serve as a visual warning that the animal is spined and defensive.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day it is usually seen resting motionless under coral overhangs or on sand. While feeding, it may wander sandy areas searching for small crustaceans and other benthic invertebrates.

Note for divers: When examining the seabed on the Sharm–Tiran side, especially check the small sandy pockets around coral heads. When the animal remains motionless, it can be surprisingly difficult to notice except for the blue spots.

Note for photographers: When using flash, the blue spots appear much more prominent than in natural light. While photographing from directly above is good for pattern, a slight diagonal angle without looming over the animal is less intrusive.

Scientific source: Last, P. R., et al. (Eds.). (2016). Rays of the World. CSIRO Publishing; Froese, R., & Pauly, D. (Eds.). FishBase: Taeniura lymma.

Cowtail stingray / Cowtail stingray – Pastinachus sephen

Distribution and habitat: Ranges from the Red Sea to Pakistan in the northwestern Indian Ocean. Found in lagoons, reef flats, reef slopes, and shallow sandy areas; FishBase reports approximately 0–60 m depth range.

Interesting fact — It has a large flag-like skin fold under its tail: The English name "cowtail" for this species comes from the wide and tall skin fold on the underside of the tail. This structure is an important character in distinguishing it from many other stingrays.

Behavior — what should divers look for? Watch for large, uniform brown stingrays resting on sand or moving along the bottom foraging. When feeding, they use various benthic prey including fish, worms, shrimp, and crabs.

Note for divers: Do not approach a large individual lying on the sand from behind. There may be one or two defensive spines on the tail; the animal's escape route must be left open.

Note for photographers: Rather than shooting from directly above, a slight angle from behind and to the side is more valuable for showing the characteristic tail fold.

Scientific source: Last, P. R., et al. (Eds.). (2016). Rays of the World. CSIRO Publishing; FishBase: Pastinachus sephen.

Porcupine ray / Porcupine ray – Urogymnus asperrimus

Distribution and habitat: Has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution ranging from the Red Sea across East Africa to the Pacific. Found on sandy bottoms, coral rubble, and seabeds around reefs; occasionally in caves. Recorded at approximately 15–217 m.

Interesting fact — Unusually for a stingray, it lacks a tail spine: Unlike most large stingrays, it lacks a venomous tail spine. Instead, the dorsal surface is covered with strong dermal denticles and in adults with sharp, spine-like projections; it is like an armored stingray.

Behavior — what should divers look for? Watch for very thick-bodied, light gray stingrays lying on sand or coral rubble areas. The spiny dorsal surface becomes more prominent upon closer inspection.

Note for divers: The absence of a tail spine is not a reason to approach or touch the animal. Due to the hard spines on the dorsal surface and the animal's sensitivity, contact should be avoided.

Note for photographers: A slight diagonal upper angle is very effective for showing the surface texture. With flash, the armored structure on the back becomes more prominent.

Scientific source: Last, P. R., et al. (Eds.). (2016). Rays of the World. CSIRO Publishing; FishBase: Urogymnus asperrimus.

Electric rays – Torpedinidae

Distribution and habitat: Members of Torpedinidae are benthic rays living in warm and temperate seas worldwide, mostly on sandy and debris bottoms. Electric ray species are also found in the Red Sea. They are easily overlooked by divers because they partially bury themselves in sand during the day to hide.

Interesting fact — They produce real electricity: Special electric organs located on either side of the head consist of modified muscle cells. These organs can produce electrical discharges both to stun prey and for defense.

Behavior — what should divers look for? Look for round stingrays on the sand with only their eyes and body outline visible. At night or when disturbed, they can leave the bottom and swim short distances.

Note for divers: Should not be touched with hands. For this group, "close touching to observe" is particularly a bad idea due to their ability to produce electricity.

Note for photographers: For individuals buried in sand, a slight upper angle showing the eyes and disk outline works well. Do not blow the animal out of the sand.

Scientific source: Last, P. R., et al. (Eds.). (2016). Rays of the World. CSIRO Publishing; Compagno, L. J. V., & Last, P. R. (1999). Torpedinidae. In FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes.

3. Sea turtles

In the northern Red Sea and Sharm el-Sheikh area, sea turtles should be sought especially on reef tops, shallow coral areas, and feeding grounds. They are not the main target on the BDE route; however, the probability of encounter is higher around Sharm–Ras Mohammed–Tiran.

Green sea turtle – Chelonia mydas

Distribution and habitat: Occurs worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas. In the Red Sea, it is associated with coastal areas, lagoons, shallow reef flats, and especially seagrass beds. Adults in most regions are herbivorous and can make heavy use of algae and seagrasses.

Interesting fact — It changes its menu when it becomes an adult: Hatchlings and juveniles feed on a more varied and animal-based diet, whereas adult green sea turtles become largely herbivorous. For this reason, healthy seagrass and algal areas are critical feeding habitats for the species.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to individuals gliding slowly over the reef or grazing on algae on the bottom. They may remain motionless under rock overhangs while resting. An individual that surfaces for air may return to the same area after a few minutes.

Note for divers: Do not swim over a turtle that is beginning to surface and do not block its ascent line. Access to the surface for breathing is essential.

Note for photographers: Instead of chasing the turtle from the front, move in parallel from the side. Feeding behavior provides a more meaningful frame than just a portrait of an individual passing by.

Scientific source: Bjorndal, K. A. (1997). Foraging ecology and nutrition of sea turtles. In P. L. Lutz & J. A. Musick (Eds.), The Biology of Sea Turtles. CRC Press; Wallace, B. P., et al. (2011). Global conservation priorities for marine turtles. PLoS ONE, 6(9), e24510.

Hawksbill sea turtle – Eretmochelys imbricata

Distribution and habitat: Widely distributed in tropical seas and particularly strongly associated with coral reefs. It is also permanently found in the Red Sea. Reef structure, caves, and sponge-rich areas are important feeding habitats.

Interesting fact — One of the few vertebrates that can eat sponges: Hawksbill turtles consume sponges heavily in many regions. Despite many sponge species having chemical defenses and hard spicules, these turtles can digest them. This feeding behavior may also contribute to shaping the structure of reef communities.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for individuals feeding by inserting their heads into small cavities between coral outcrops. The beak-shaped narrow mouth is suited to taking sponges and other benthic organisms from crevices.

Note for divers: Approaching a feeding individual too closely may immediately stop the behavior. Staying a few meters back and waiting in the same spot provides longer observation.

Note for photographers: Try to show the pointed beak, overlapping carapace plates, and reef habitat in the same frame. If the animal is feeding on a sponge, be sure to document this behavior.

Scientific source: Meylan, A. (1988). Spongivory in hawksbill turtles: A diet of glass. Science, 239(4838), 393–395; Wallace, B. P., et al. (2011). Global conservation priorities for marine turtles. PLoS ONE, 6(9), e24510.

4. Large pelagic fish and schooling fish

At BDE, Daedalus, Brothers, and Tiran and similar current-swept open ocean reefs, looking only at the coral wall is a big mistake. A significant portion of this group roams several meters outside the reef, sometimes at the edge of visibility.

Giant trevally – Caranx ignobilis

Distribution and habitat: Widely distributed in tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Associated with outer reef edges, channels, oceanic islands, and current-swept headlands. Adults are large and powerful pelagic predators.

Interesting fact — The "sudden silence" on the reef may indicate its arrival: Giant trevally can rapidly attack schools of reef fish. Sudden compression, directional change, or approach of a small fish school toward coral can indicate the presence of a large predator in the area.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for large, dark-colored individuals circling around schools of fusiliers, anthias, or small jacks. Single or small groups may be seen at reef headlands where current strikes.

Note for divers: When watching schooling fish, look not only into the school itself but also at the open space around it. The predator often patrols just outside the school.

Note for photographers: Rather than portraying the fish alone in close-up, shooting it with schooling fish tells the predator-prey relationship much better.

Scientific source: Smith-Vaniz, W. F. (1999). Carangidae. In FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes: The Living Marine Resources of the Western Central Pacific; FishBase: Caranx ignobilis.

Bluefin trevally – Caranx melampygus

Distribution and habitat: Common in Indo-Pacific reefs. In the Red Sea, found at reef edges, lagoons, and current-swept areas.

Interesting fact — Its color becomes even more pronounced while hunting: The species' bright blue fins and blue patches on the body are very distinctive, especially in adults. Rapid color and contrast changes can be observed during hunting.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for single individuals or small groups patrolling rapidly along the reef wall. They can hunt small fish by compressing them against the coral.

Note for divers: When you see bluefin trevally chasing a school, do not swim in front of it; if you stay where you are, the hunting behavior may come toward you.

Note for photographers: Flash makes the blue fins very prominent. Side profile is the best frame for color identification.

Scientific source: Smith-Vaniz, W. F. (1999). Carangidae. FAO; FishBase: Caranx melampygus.

Bigeye trevally – Caranx sexfasciatus

Distribution and habitat: Common in tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea. Found in reef channels, outer reef slopes, and the open water column.

Interesting fact — During the day they can form a giant ball: Bigeye trevally can form tight schools of hundreds of individuals. These schools sometimes take the form of a spiral, wall, or large ball.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Dark-colored, tight schools should be sought especially at reef edges where the current calms. They hunt more actively at night.

Note for divers: Stay at the edge of the school rather than swimming through its center. If the school maintains its natural shape, both behavior and photography will be much more impressive.

Note for photographers: Use a wide angle and capture the geometry of the school in your frame. Shooting upward turns the fish into silhouettes against surface light.

Scientific source: Smith-Vaniz, W. F. (1999). Carangidae. FAO; FishBase: Caranx sexfasciatus.

Greater amberjack – Seriola dumerili

Distribution and habitat: A large pelagic fish with wide distribution in parts of the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Indo-Pacific. Found around deep rocky areas, wrecks, and reef edges facing open water.

Interesting fact — Looks like a reef fish but is an open water hunter: Although greater amberjacks are often seen around hard substrate, their hunting ground is the water column. They follow small fish and squid.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for large, long-bodied fish patrolling a few meters outside the reef. Sometimes they cruise in small groups over wrecks.

Note for divers: Following amberjacks on deep reefs can unintentionally increase depth without notice.

Note for photographers: A side profile and the long base of the second dorsal fin display the species' characteristic body form well.

Scientific source: Smith-Vaniz, W. F. (1999). Carangidae. FAO; FishBase: Seriola dumerili.

Dogtooth tuna – Gymnosarda unicolor

Distribution and habitat: Found around open reefs and oceanic islands of the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to tropical Pacific. Particularly associated with deep drop-offs and areas of strong current.

Interesting fact — It gets its name from teeth that truly resemble dog teeth: Unlike most tuna, it has strong and prominent conical teeth. This structure clearly indicates it is an active predator capable of catching large fish.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for fish passing rapidly outside the reef wall, usually as a single individual or a few large specimens. May follow fusilier schools.

Note for divers: When you see a dogtooth tuna, watch the small fish schools around it; hunting behavior may begin.

Note for photographers: Because it's fast, keep your shutter speed high in advance. A slightly head-on diagonal frame shows the powerful head structure and body form well.

Scientific source: Collette, B. B., & Nauen, C. E. (1983). FAO species catalogue. Vol. 2. Scombrids of the world. FAO; FishBase: Gymnosarda unicolor.

Yellowfin tuna – Thunnus albacares

Distribution and habitat: Widespread in open waters of tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. Also found in the Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Designed for continuous swimming: The body shape, narrow tail stalk, and sickle-shaped tail fin are adapted for prolonged high-speed swimming. In large individuals, the second dorsal and anal fins are notably elongated and yellow in color.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for single individuals or schools passing rapidly through open water. High density of small pelagic fish around the reef may attract them to the area.

Note for divers: Usually visible for a short time; observe the passing route rather than attempting to follow the animal.

Note for photographers: Being prepared is important; encounters may last only a few seconds. The long yellow finlets and sickle tail are good diagnostic details.

Scientific source: Collette, B. B., & Nauen, C. E. (1983). Scombrids of the world. FAO.

Wahoo – Acanthocybium solandri

Distribution and habitat: A pelagic species found throughout tropical and subtropical oceans. Can be seen around oceanic islands and deep reef edges.

Interesting fact — One of the fastest predators in the sea: Its long torpedo-shaped body and powerful tail are adapted for high-speed hunting. It pursues small tuna and other pelagic fish.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for very long and slender silver-colored fish passing away from the reef, usually alone.

Note for divers: The encounter is usually very brief. If you don't regularly scan the open blue, you may not even notice it passing by.

Note for photographers: A wide angle is advantageous for fitting the long body in the frame; however, in most encounters, quick reflexes are more important.

Scientific source: Collette, B. B., & Nauen, C. E. (1983). Scombrids of the world. FAO.

Great barracuda – Sphyraena barracuda

Distribution and habitat: Common in tropical Atlantic and Indo-Pacific, a large coastal and reef-associated predator. In the Red Sea, found around reef walls, lagoon entrances, and open water edges.

Interesting fact — Looking motionless doesn't mean it's slow: Barracuda often hover almost stationary in the water column. When prey appears, it can accelerate suddenly with extreme speed.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for long silver-colored individuals hanging motionless a few meters above the reef.

Note for divers: Do not approach the animal with bright swinging objects. Under normal diving conditions, maintaining distance is sufficient.

Photographer's note: Slight upward framing shows strong chin and long body silhouette very well.

Scientific source: Carpenter, K. E., & Niem, V. H. (Eds.). (2001). FAO species identification guide for fishery purposes: The living marine resources of the Western Central Pacific; FishBase: Sphyraena barracuda.

Pickhandle barracuda – Sphyraena jello

Distribution and habitat: Found in Indo-Pacific and Red Sea coastal and reef-associated waters. Juveniles and adults occasionally form schools.

Interesting fact — Dark lines on body help with identification: Vertical dark bands on the sides, especially in medium-sized individuals, help distinguish this species from other barracudas.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for loose schools swimming parallel along the outer reef edge.

Diver's note: School behavior is as striking as a single large barracuda. Observe the school from the edge without entering it.

Photographer's note: Framing several individuals in a diagonal line better shows the school structure of the species.

Scientific source: Carpenter, K. E., & Niem, V. H. (Eds.). (2001). FAO species identification guide; FishBase: Sphyraena jello.

Rainbow runner – Elagatis bipinnulata

Distribution and habitat: Worldwide distribution in tropical oceans. A pelagic species living on open ocean reefs, islands, and in the water column.

Interesting fact — Named after the color stripes on its body: Long lines in blue and yellow tones run along the sides. When swimming fast, these stripes appear like moving color bands within the school.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for schools of thin, torpedo-shaped fish moving rapidly against the current.

Diver's note: A sudden appearance of rainbow runner schools at the reef edge may signal the presence of other large pelagic predators nearby.

Photographer's note: Shooting the school at a diagonal angle shows the repetition of yellow-blue stripes well.

Scientific source: Smith-Vaniz, W. F. (1999). Carangidae. FAO; FishBase: Elagatis bipinnulata.

Blue-lined fusilier – Pterocaesio tile

Distribution and habitat: Widespread on Indo-Pacific reefs from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Forms large schools on outer reef slopes, channels, and underwater ridges.

Interesting fact — Light band effect within the school: The bright blue line running along the body creates the appearance of a continuously moving blue band when hundreds of individuals swim together.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for long and dense schools facing into the current. Sudden compression of the school may indicate the approach of a predator such as trevally, tuna, or barracuda.

Diver's note: Don't just watch the school; occasionally look around it. The large predator is often in the overlooked area.

Photographer's note: Shoot the school at a diagonal angle and leave empty space on one side of the frame for the predator.

Scientific source: Carpenter, K. E. (1987). Revision of the Indo-Pacific fish family Caesionidae. Indo-Pacific Fishes, 15, 1–56.

Yellowback fusilier – Caesio xanthonota

Distribution and habitat: Found in tropical reefs including the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea. Forms large schools on outer reef slopes.

Interesting fact — Yellow back band makes the school look like a single organism: The intense yellow color of the upper body creates strong visual unity in schools where hundreds of individuals move together.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for yellow-blue schools feeding on plankton slightly above the reef.

Diver's note: As the current strengthens, the school may move closer to and more tightly against the reef.

Photographer's note: Wide-angle shooting together with the reef's colors is very striking.

Scientific source: Carpenter, K. E. (1987). Revision of the Indo-Pacific fish family Caesionidae. Indo-Pacific Fishes, 15, 1–56.

Lunar fusilier – Caesio lunaris

Distribution and habitat: Found on Indo-Pacific reefs, including the Red Sea, on outer reef slopes and in clear open waters.

Interesting fact — Color patterns may aid school coordination: The blue body and yellow tail colors may provide visual cues that help individuals follow each other in fast-moving, crowded schools.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Mixed with other species within large fusilier schools.

Diver's note: Don't assume it's a single-species school; different fusilier species can swim together in the same school in the Red Sea.

Photographer's note: Close-up photography of a few individuals to document species mixture is as valuable as wide school photography.

Scientific source: Carpenter, K. E. (1987). Revision of the Indo-Pacific fish family Caesionidae. Indo-Pacific Fishes, 15, 1–56.

Yellowfin goatfish – Mulloidichthys vanicolensis

Distribution and habitat: Widespread on Indo-Pacific reefs from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Can form large schools over the reef during the day; disperses into sandy areas to feed at night.

Interesting fact — Night and day behavior can be completely different: During the day, hundreds of individuals form tight schools that appear motionless, while at night they forage on the seafloor with whisker-like barbels, feeding on benthic prey.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day, search for yellow-striped schools suspended over coral reefs.

Diver's note: At night you may see individual fish wandering alone on the bottom in the same area; think of the school you saw during the day as scattered.

Photographer's note: Daytime schooling behavior works well for wide-angle shots, while individuals feeding in sand at night make good subjects for behavioral macro photography.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (2004). Reef and shore fishes of the South Pacific. University of Hawai'i Press; FishBase: Mulloidichthys vanicolensis.

5. Wrasses and large reef fish

Napoleon wrasse – Cheilinus undulatus

Distribution and habitat: Found throughout Indo-Pacific coral reefs from the Red Sea to the central Pacific. Occurs on outer reef slopes, channels, lagoons, and deep reef edges at approximately 1–100 m depth. One of the most distinctive large reef fish at Sharm el-Sheikh and Tiran reefs.

Interesting fact — Males can develop from females: The Napoleon wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite; some individuals that begin life as females can later change to males. A prominent bump develops on the forehead of large adult males. At over 2 m in length, it is among the largest members of the Labridae family.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Large individuals typically move slowly and calmly along reef walls. You may encounter individuals that approach divers with curiosity.

Diver's note: Rather than swimming after one to approach it, wait. A curious Napoleon wrasse will often come quite close of its own accord.

Photographer's note: Slight front-side angle; shows thick lips, lines behind the eye, and the forehead bump in adult males together. Including the diver at a distance in the frame is striking for conveying the fish's size.

Scientific source: Sadovy, Y., Kulbicki, M., Labrosse, P., Letourneur, Y., Lokani, P., & Donaldson, T. J. (2003). The humphead wrasse, Cheilinus undulatus: Synopsis of a threatened and poorly known giant coral reef fish. Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries, 13, 327–364.

Giant grouper – Epinephelus lanceolatus

Distribution and habitat: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Lives around reefs, caves, wrecks, and large rock formations.

Interesting fact — One of the world's largest reef fish: Individuals exceeding 2.5 m in length and weighing over 400 kg have been recorded. It can therefore approach the size of a small automobile rather than an ordinary grouper.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for very large, thick-bodied fish in large cave entrances, wrecks, and under reef overhangs.

Diver's note: Although large individuals may appear calm, they are powerful animals. Do not block the entrance to a cave and keep an escape route open.

Photographer's note: Showing scale is important. Including a diver at safe distance or reef structure in the frame conveys the animal's true size.

Scientific source: Heemstra, P. C., & Randall, J. E. (1993). FAO species catalogue. Vol. 16. Groupers of the world. FAO.

Potato grouper – Epinephelus tukula

Distribution and habitat: Found on tropical reefs from the Red Sea and Indian Ocean through the western Pacific. Associated with deep coral reefs, channels, and outer reef slopes.

Interesting fact — Spots can help like a fingerprint: The shape and distribution of large dark blotches on the body can differ between individuals. High-quality side-profile photographs can help in recognizing individuals seen again.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Large individuals may rest calmly at cave entrances or just above the reef. Some may show considerable curiosity toward divers.

Diver's note: If it approaches you, do not retreat or chase; staying in place usually prolongs the encounter.

Photographer's note: Side profile is valuable for showing the distribution of spots. If you see the same individual on different dives, you can compare patterns.

Scientific source: Heemstra, P. C., & Randall, J. E. (1993). Groupers of the world. FAO.

Greasy grouper – Epinephelus tauvina

Distribution and habitat: Associated with rocky and coral reefs from the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean through tropical Indo-Pacific regions.

Interesting fact — Grouper identification is harder than you might think: Similar body patterns in Epinephelus species can lead to frequent identification errors underwater. Color alone is insufficient; head shape, fins, spot shape, and body proportions must be evaluated together.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for individuals resting motionless under rock outcrops or on the reef. They can deliver a quick and sudden strike when prey approaches.

Diver's note: If unsure of the species identification, take a photograph rather than assigning a name underwater; comparing characteristics later is more reliable.

Photographer's note: For identification purposes, take a full side profile if possible; a head portrait alone may not be sufficient.

Scientific source: Heemstra, P. C., & Randall, J. E. (1993). Groupers of the world. FAO.

Coral hind – Cephalopholis miniata

Distribution and habitat: Common in coral reefs from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. Particularly found on coral-rich outer reef slopes.

Interesting fact — Blue spots may also play a role in communication: The numerous bright blue dots on the orange-red body make the species easy to identify. Color intensity can vary depending on behavior and social status.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for red-orange groupers making short-distance movements around coral heads. When threatened, they quickly hide beneath coral.

Note for divers: Do not try to follow them into the corals. If you remain at a distance, they usually emerge from the same spot again.

Note for photographers: Flash use makes the blue dots appear much more prominent than in natural light.

Scientific source: Heemstra, P. C., & Randall, J. E. (1993). Groupers of the world. FAO.

Peacock grouper – Cephalopholis argus

Distribution and habitat: Widely distributed in Indo-Pacific reefs from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Found in various habitats from shallow lagoons to outer reef slopes.

Interesting fact — Color can reveal mood: Bright blue dots on the body are characteristic; however, the fish's overall color can change noticeably during social interaction, territory defense, or hunting.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for individuals that use a specific area of the reef and frequently return to the same spot.

Note for divers: Observing the same individual for a few minutes can help you notice color changes and territorial behavior.

Note for photographers: Capturing different color phases in the same dive creates a more interesting behavioral sequence than a single portrait.

Scientific source: Heemstra, P. C., & Randall, J. E. (1993). Groupers of the world. FAO.

Lyretail grouper – Variola louti

Distribution and habitat: Common in Indo-Pacific coral reefs from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Particularly found on clear outer reef slopes and deep walls.

Interesting fact — The crescent shape of its tail aids identification: The lyre-shaped extensions of the tail fin and yellow edges are among the species' most distinctive features. Small blue dots on the body also help with identification.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Compared to many other groupers, it swims more actively in the water column and can cover long distances along reef walls.

Note for divers: Do not just look inside caves; you may spot this grouper several meters away from the reef.

Note for photographers: Do not crop the tail fin. Make sure the characteristic lyre-shaped tail is in the frame.

Scientific source: Heemstra, P. C., & Randall, J. E. (1993). Groupers of the world. FAO.

Titan triggerfish – Balistoides viridescens

Distribution and habitat: Found in tropical Indo-Pacific reefs from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Lives in coral reefs, sandy openings, and reef flats.

Interesting fact — The dangerous part is approaching its nest, not the fish itself: During breeding season, the female deposits eggs on a sandy bottom and actively defends the nest. The defended area should be thought of not as a small circle on the bottom, but as a zone expanding upward.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? If the fish is turning toward you, raising its dorsal fin, and making repeated approaches, it may be defending its territory.

Note for divers: In such a situation, move horizontally away from the area rather than fleeing upward.

Note for photographers: Do not approach the animal during breeding season for close-ups. Shooting individuals displaying normal behavior from the side shows the powerful jaws and body pattern well.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E., Allen, G. R., & Steene, R. C. (1997). Fishes of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. University of Hawai'i Press.

Yellowmargin triggerfish – Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus

Distribution and habitat: Lives in sand-reef transitions and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific region extending from the Red Sea to the Pacific.

Interesting fact — It is a nest engineer: During breeding season, it can create a pit-like nest on the sandy bottom. The female deposits eggs and behavior around the nest changes markedly.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Check for large triggerfish moving alone over sand and circular cleared areas on the bottom.

Note for divers: Give extra distance to individuals near nests.

Note for photographers: A side profile showing the yellow fin margins is valuable for identification purposes.

Scientific source: Matsuura, K. (2001). Balistidae. In FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes.

Blue triggerfish – Pseudobalistes fuscus

Distribution and habitat: Common in tropical reefs of the Red Sea and Indo-Pacific. Found on coral-rich outer reef slopes and in lagoons.

Interesting fact — Appearance changes with age: While young individuals have prominent blue lines and patterns on yellowish bodies, adults can gradually turn to increasingly darker blue.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to large individuals wandering alone over the reef and investigating hard-shelled prey.

Note for divers: Strong teeth are adapted for feeding on coral, sea urchins, and hard-shelled prey; do not put your hands into feeding areas.

Note for photographers: Photographing young and adult individuals separately creates a nice series to show color change.

Scientific source: Matsuura, K. (2001). Balistidae. FAO.

Redtooth triggerfish – Odonus niger

Distribution and habitat: Common on outer reef slopes and in current-swept areas from the Red Sea to the Pacific.

Interesting fact — Trigger fish but a plankton hunter: While many triggerfish feed on hard-shelled prey on the bottom, Odonus niger largely collects zooplankton from the water column. For this reason, it can form schools of hundreds of individuals.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for dark blue fish schools hanging over the reef facing into the current.

Note for divers: A large Odonus school can indicate the plankton-carrying line of current; the same area may also be dense with fusiliers and anthias.

Note for photographers: Shooting the school with a wide angle rather than individual fish tells the ecology of the species much better.

Scientific source: Matsuura, K. (2001). Balistidae. FAO.

6. Moray eels

Giant moray – Gymnothorax javanicus

Distribution and habitat: Common in Indo-Pacific coral reefs from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Lives in caves, large rock crevices, and reef cavities.

Interesting fact — It has a second jaw: Moray eels have a second jaw system called the "pharyngeal jaw" in their throat. After prey is caught, this jaw moves forward to pull the prey from the mouth toward the esophagus. This mechanism is quite unusual among vertebrates.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day, only the head can be seen protruding from caves. At night, it may come fully out to hunt. Can be seen at cleaning stations with cleaner fish and shrimp.

Note for divers: Constantly opening and closing its mouth is not a sign of attack preparation; it is normal respiratory movement to pass water over the gills.

Note for photographers: If you encounter cleaning behavior, do not shoot only a moray eel portrait; include the cleaner fish or shrimp in the frame.

Scientific source: Mehta, R. S., & Wainwright, P. C. (2007). Raptorial jaws in the throat help moray eels swallow large prey. Nature, 449, 79–82.

Yellow-mouth moray – Gymnothorax nudivomer

Distribution and habitat: Seen in rocky and coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region spanning the Red Sea to the Pacific. Generally associated with caves and deep crevices.

Interesting fact — The inside of its mouth reveals species identification: The distinctive yellow color inside the mouth is one of the most easily recognized features of this species. This character is clearly visible when the animal opens and closes its mouth for respiration.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to the dark-colored head emerging from the rock crevice and the yellow inside the opening mouth.

Note for divers: Do not use a torch, stick, or other tool to pull the moray out.

Note for photographers: Waiting for the moment the mouth is open gives a much better frame for species identification.

Scientific source: Böhlke, E. B., McCosker, J. E., & Böhlke, J. E. (1989). Family Muraenidae. In Fishes of the Western North Atlantic; FishBase, Gymnothorax nudivomer.

Honeycomb moray – Gymnothorax favagineus

Distribution and habitat: Distributed in tropical reefs of the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific; also found in the Red Sea. Uses large rock cavities and coral caves.

Interesting fact — Its pattern really is like a honeycomb: Dark, irregular net-shaped markings on a light-colored background cover the entire body of the individual. In larger individuals, the pattern is particularly striking.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to large, heavily patterned heads emerging from cave entrances. At night, the likelihood of seeing it fully outside increases.

Note for divers: Do not block the cave exit of large individuals.

Note for photographers: Flash brings out the honeycomb pattern much better than natural light. Include part of the body next to the head in the frame.

Scientific source: Böhlke, E. B., McCosker, J. E., & Böhlke, J. E. (1989). Family Muraenidae; FishBase, Gymnothorax favagineus.

Undulated moray – Gymnothorax undulatus

Distribution and habitat: Seen in tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea. Lives in rocky crevices and coral cavities.

Interesting fact — The pattern appears to break camouflage but does the opposite: The irregular light-colored lines on the body can disrupt body boundaries among the complex reef patterns created by coral and shadows, making the animal harder to notice.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day, look for heads at cave entrances; at night, look for individuals moving about on the reef floor.

Note for divers: During night dives, do not block the movement path of a moray seen in the open.

Note for photographer: Sidelighting can better reveal body patterns.

Scientific source: Böhlke, E. B., McCosker, J. E., & Böhlke, J. E. (1989). Family Muraenidae; FishBase, Gymnothorax undulatus.

Geometric moray – Gymnothorax griseus

Distribution and habitat: Found in rocky and coral reefs of the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean. Usually hides in small cracks and coral crevices.

Interesting fact — Facial pattern creates a fingerprint effect: Dark spots and fine geometric patterns on the head are very useful for identifying this small-to-medium-sized moray.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to small coral cracks rather than large caverns. Most of the time only the head is visible.

Note for diver: When looking for large morays, don't skip small cracks; one of the finest portraits of Sharm reefs might be hiding there.

Note for photographer: Use macro or close focus with a wide angle to sharpen the head pattern and eyes.

Scientific source: Böhlke, E. B., McCosker, J. E., & Böhlke, J. E. (1989). Family Muraenidae; FishBase, Gymnothorax griseus.

Grey moray – Siderea grisea

(current sources often show taxonomic usage related to Gymnothorax griseus )

At this point, a correction is needed in the list: in the previous draft, "grey moray – Siderea grisea" and "geometric moray – Gymnothorax griseus" appeared as two separate species. Using them as two separate species is incorrect. Since the currently accepted taxonomic name is Gymnothorax griseus, I recommend using a single entry on the web page.

For this reason, keeping five moray species in section 6 would be cleaner and more scientifically accurate.

7. Reef fish species endemic to and characterizing the Red Sea region

In this section, it is good to make a small scientific distinction: let's not label all the following species as "Red Sea endemic." Some are truly known only from the Red Sea; others have a Red Sea–Gulf of Aden or broader Western Indian Ocean distribution. It is therefore more accurate to use the heading "Species endemic to and characterizing the Red Sea region" on the web page. For example, Pseudochromis fridmani, Pseudanthias taeniatus and Thalassoma rueppellii are among the Red Sea endemic species, while Chaetodon semilarvatus and Heniochus intermedius extend to the Gulf of Aden.

Red Sea clownfish – Amphiprion bicinctus

Distribution and habitat: Primarily associated with the Red Sea in the Western Indian Ocean; records extend beyond the Red Sea to the Chagos. Lives on shallow coral reefs, especially in areas where host sea anemones are found.

Interesting fact — Can live safely between the anemone's tentacles: The mucus layer on the clownfish's skin plays an important role in protecting it from the host anemone's stinging cells. Thus it can hide between tentacles that most fish cannot enter.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? When you find an anemone, look not just in the middle but also at the edges. A. bicinctus usually does not stray far from its host; when threatened, it quickly retreats between the tentacles.

Note for diver: Placing a hand over the anemone or trying to draw the fish out disturbs both the anemone and the fish. If you remain still for a few minutes, the fish will resume swimming in the open.

Note for photographer: Use the anemone tentacles as the foreground. A slight cross angle where the fish's eye is sharp and both white bands are visible tells the story best.

Scientific source: Allen, G. R. (1972). The anemonefishes: Their classification and biology. TFH Publications; FishBase, Amphiprion bicinctus.

Masked butterflyfish – Chaetodon semilarvatus

Distribution and habitat: Has a regional distribution endemic to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Usually found at depths of approximately 3–20 m with rich coral development; may form pairs or small groups.

Interesting fact — The blue mask around the eyes immediately gives it away: The yellow body and blue-colored area behind the eye make this species one of the most easily recognized butterflyfish in the Red Sea. Pairs traveling together for long periods is also characteristic.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention especially to pairs resting under table-shaped Acropora corals or in dense coral gardens. They may stay within the same small area for long periods.

Note for diver: When you spot one individual, look around it; you can usually find its mate within a few meters.

Note for photographer: Capturing the pair in the same frame rather than a single individual better shows the species' natural social behavior.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Chaetodon semilarvatus.

Red Sea bannerfish – Heniochus intermedius

Distribution and habitat: Found in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Lives on coral slopes and outer reefs at depths of approximately 3–50 m. While juveniles may form larger groups, adults are frequently solitary or in pairs.

Interesting fact — Its long dorsal extension moves like a flag: The very long white extension of the first dorsal fin creates the appearance of a ribbon waving above the fish during swimming.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to slow-moving black-white-yellow individuals on the coral wall. Juveniles can be seen in groups near the reef floor.

Note for divers: At first glance, it can be confused with other Heniochus species. Evaluate the long dorsal extension along with the body colors and the distribution of yellow areas.

Note for photographers: Do not crop the dorsal extension out of frame by any means; it is the fish's most characteristic feature.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Heniochus intermedius.

Red Sea dottyback – Pseudochromis fridmani

Distribution and habitat: A small reef fish endemic to the Red Sea. It inhabits depths between approximately 1–60 m, particularly on steep rock faces and under overhangs; it retreats into small crevices when threatened.

Interesting fact — Small but extraordinarily bright: Despite being only about 6 cm in length, its purple-violet color makes it noticeable even in dark reef crevices.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Rather than looking at large fish, scan small shaded pockets on the wall. Typical behavior is a purple fish venturing out a few centimeters and then retreating back into the hole.

Note for divers: Do not point your flashlight directly and continuously at the animal. Lighting from slightly to the side allows you to observe more natural behavior.

Note for photographers: Due to its small size, a macro or close-focus lens is advantageous. Eye sharpness is particularly important.

Scientific source: Klausewitz, W. (1968). Original description of Pseudochromis fridmani; FishBase, Pseudochromis fridmani.

Red Sea mimic blenny – Ecsenius gravieri

Distribution and habitat: It has a limited distribution extending from the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aqaba, and westward to the western portions of the Gulf of Aden. It is a small blenny species associated with reefs, with a maximum length of approximately 8 cm.

Interesting fact — It mimics the appearance of a venomous fish: Ecsenius gravieri mimics the appearance of Meiacanthus nigrolineatus, which possesses venomous teeth for defense. A harmless species resembling a dangerous one is one of the finest examples of Batesian mimicry.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to small fish with yellow-black patterns moving rapidly on small coral outcrops and rocky surfaces.

Note for divers: If you happen to see the actual mimic model on the same dive, try to compare the two species. This is one of the most beautiful examples of behavioral ecology observable in the Red Sea.

Note for photographers: Shoot from the side profile; the mimicry pattern makes sense only when seen in its entirety from head to tail.

Scientific source: Springer, V. G. (1988). The Indo-Pacific blenniid fish genus Ecsenius. Smithsonian Contributions to Zoology; FishBase, Ecsenius gravieri.

Red Sea cleaner wrasse – Larabicus quadrilineatus

Distribution and habitat: A small Labridae member inhabiting Red Sea and nearby Western Indian Ocean reefs. It is found around coral reefs and cleaning stations.

Interesting fact — Cleaner when young, feeding behavior changes as it grows: Juvenile individuals can remove parasites from other fish. As they mature, they shift toward different food sources including coral polyps. This ontogenetic shift is one of the interesting features that distinguishes it from classic cleaner wrasses.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Observe whether small individuals make short, repetitive movements around large fish. A large fish remaining motionless and opening its fins can be a sign of a cleaning station.

Note for divers: Watch not only the cleaner fish but also the behavior of the "client" fish. Movements such as opening the mouth and spreading fins sideways may indicate cleaning behavior.

Note for photographers: The most valuable frame is not capturing the cleaner alone, but showing it working on the larger fish.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing.

Eight-striped flasher wrasse – Paracheilinus octotaenia

Distribution and habitat: A small reef wrasse endemic to the Red Sea. It lives in small groups, particularly in coral and rubble-mixed reefs.

Interesting fact — Males can change completely for a few seconds: During courtship, males fully extend their fins and normally subdued colors become much brighter. This "flashing" behavior lasts only a few seconds.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During hours approaching sunset, watch for males moving rapidly back and forth around small groups of females.

Note for divers: The fish you observe in its normal state and the male in courtship behavior may look like almost two different species.

Note for photographers: Use burst mode. The male can only fully open its fins for a very short time.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing.

Klunzinger wrasse – Thalassoma rueppellii

Distribution and habitat: Endemic to the Red Sea. It is found on reef edges and seaward-facing reef slopes, mostly between approximately 1–30 m in depth.

Interesting information — Can hybridize with another wrasse species: Thalassoma rueppellii and Thalassoma lunare have been reported to naturally hybridize. This demonstrates that species boundaries among closely related reef fish may not always be as sharp as we assume.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Observe colorful wrasses in constant motion a few centimeters above the reef surface. Most of the time they pause briefly before rapidly moving again.

Note for divers: Due to their fast swimming, species identification can be difficult at first glance. Wait at the passage line rather than pursuing a single individual to observe head and body patterns.

Note for photographers: Fast shutter speed is advantageous due to constant movement. Full side profile best displays the color pattern.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Thalassoma rueppellii.

Red Sea anthias – Pseudanthias taeniatus

Distribution and habitat: An anthias species endemic to the Red Sea. Forms schools around coral outcrops at approximately 10–40 m depths.

Interesting information — School social structure can change sex: Social structure in anthias species typically consists of one male and numerous females. When the dominant male disappears, one of the larger females may begin sex change toward becoming male.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Observe small anthias schools rising from the reef toward the current. When danger appears, the entire school is immediately drawn into the coral, reappearing a few seconds later.

Note for divers: Find the largest and differently colored individual in the school; this is usually the dominant male.

Note for photographers: Photographing the school forming a "cloud" over the coral with a wide angle rather than a single individual better reflects the true reef character of the species.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Pseudanthias taeniatus.

Arabian angelfish – Pomacanthus asfur

Distribution and habitat: Ranges from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden along the East African coast to Zanzibar. Common at approximately 3–30 m in semi-protected reefs where hard and soft corals thrive. Sponges and tunicates are important in the diet of adults.

Interesting information — Juveniles and adults look almost like different species: Juveniles carry blue-white stripes on a dark body, while adults become dark-bodied with a yellow tail and distinct yellow side bands.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Adults typically move solitary or in pairs and can be territorial toward their own species.

Note for divers: If you see both juveniles and adults on the same dive, compare the color change differences between life stages.

Note for photographers: Prefer side profile to fully show the yellow tail and side band in adults, and concentric stripes in juveniles.

Scientific source: Allen, G. R. (1985). Butterfly and angelfishes of the world. Mergus; FishBase, Pomacanthus asfur.

Yellow-banded angelfish – Pomacanthus maculosus

Distribution and habitat: Has a wide distribution in the Western Indian Ocean ranging from the Red Sea to the Persian Gulf and East Africa. Found at approximately 4–60 m on reefs and occasionally also found on reefs with less coral coverage and slight muddy substrates.

Interesting information — The yellow spot beside it resembles a map: The large yellow area in the center of the body in adults is the easiest identifying feature of the species. Juveniles have a completely different blue-white striped pattern from adults.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for large angelfishes moving slowly along the reef wall. While feeding, they can break off sponges and other benthic organisms with small bites.

Note for divers: Can be confused with P. asfur. Best differentiation is by the shape and location of the yellow area.

Note for photographers: Full side profile best shows the diagnostic difference between the two species.

Scientific source: Allen, G. R. (1985). Butterfly and angelfishes of the world. Mergus; FishBase, Pomacanthus maculosus.

Sohal surgeonfish – Acanthurus sohal

Distribution and habitat: Inhabits the Western Indian Ocean region from the Red Sea to the Persian Gulf. Particularly common on outer reef edges exposed to waves and currents, most often seen in shallow waters within the first 20 m.

Interesting information — It carries a real "scalpel" in its tail: The sharp bony structure on the tail peduncle that surgeonfish are named after can be used in defense. Sohal is also a highly territorial and aggressive surgeonfish.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for black and white striped individuals patrolling rapidly over reef tops with strong wave action. They can chase other herbivorous fish away from their feeding areas.

Note for divers: Watch not only the color but also the behavior on the reef; if you see a large surgeonfish chasing other fish, it is likely defending its territory.

Note for photographers: Include the orange-yellow tail peduncle area in your frame; this is the most important anatomical region showing the "surgeon" characteristic of the species.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Acanthurus sohal.

Purple surgeonfish / Yellowtail tang – Zebrasoma xanthurum

Distribution and habitat: Distributed in the western Indian Ocean from the Red Sea to the Persian Gulf. Usually found on coral-rich or rocky reefs between 2–20 m depth. Feeds on filamentous algae.

Interesting fact — This combination of purple and yellow is one of the signature colors of the Red Sea: The dark blue-purple body with bright yellow tail makes it recognizable from afar on the reef.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for individuals scraping algae off rocky or coral surfaces with small bites. Can be seen in groups.

Note for divers: When you see a school, observe which areas they graze intensively on the surface; you can directly observe how herbivorous fish reduce algal pressure on the reef.

Note for photographers: In natural light, the purple color deepens easily at depth. Flash or strong video light restores the true contrast between the yellow tail and purple body.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Zebrasoma xanthurum.

8. Classic Red Sea reef fishes

In this section I focus on species that divers frequently encounter on the Sharm–Ras Mohammed–Tiran side, characterizing the Red Sea reef image. It is more appropriate to exclude Acanthurus leucosternon, which we listed in the previous section; current distribution sources place this species in the East Africa–Indian Ocean range, not explicitly including the Red Sea in its natural distribution.

Blacktail / Exquisite butterflyfish – Chaetodon austriacus

Distribution and habitat: Has limited regional distribution restricted to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Usually found on shallow reefs between 1–15 m with high live coral cover. Adults typically live in pairs, while juveniles may not stray far from a single coral head.

Interesting fact — Its bond with coral is very strong: The presence of this species particularly in coral-rich areas is no coincidence. It shows a close relationship with healthy coral communities, as live coral polyps play an important role in its diet.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for pairs in shallow coral gardens that don't stray far from each other. Fish may make short pauses on coral surfaces and feed with small bites.

Note for divers: When you find a pair, rather than approaching immediately, stay in the same spot; you will notice they regularly move between the same few coral heads.

Note for photographers: Try to capture both individuals in the same frame and feeding on coral. Full side profile makes identification of the characteristic body pattern easier.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Chaetodon austriacus.

Regal angelfish – Pygoplites diacanthus

Distribution and habitat: Has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Central Pacific. Found in coral-rich lagoons and outer reefs, around caves and overhangs. Sponges and tunicates are important food sources.

Interesting fact — Its colors are not just ornamental, they also indicate life stage: In juveniles, there is a distinct eye-like spot behind the dorsal fin. As they grow, this pattern fades and the characteristic orange, blue-and-white striped appearance of adults emerges.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for individuals moving singly or in pairs around cave entrances and coral overhangs. Can be seen breaking off small pieces from sponge surfaces.

Note for divers: If it retreats into a cave, do not follow. If you remain still, it will usually re-emerge within a few minutes.

Note for photographers: Full side profile is particularly important in this species; it shows all the color bands and yellow tail together.

Scientific source: Allen, G. R. (1985). Butterfly and angelfishes of the world. Mergus; FishBase, Pygoplites diacanthus.

Emperor angelfish – Pomacanthus imperator

Distribution and habitat: Has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution from the Red Sea to the Pacific. Found in coral reefs, caves and outer reef slopes.

Interesting fact — Juveniles and adults look completely different: Juveniles have concentric rings of white and light blue on a dark blue background, while adults become yellow-blue horizontally striped. This change is so distinct that inexperienced divers may think juveniles and adults are two separate species.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Larger individuals usually move within a specific area on the reef wall. Can remain in one spot for a short time while feeding on sponges and tunicates.

Note for divers: If you see both a juvenile and an adult on the same dive, it is particularly interesting to compare their color changes.

Note for photographers: For juveniles choose a side angle to show the rings, for adults show the black mask at eye level and the yellow-blue stripes.

Scientific source: Allen, G. R. (1985). Butterfly and angelfishes of the world. Mergus; Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes.

Picasso triggerfish – Rhinecanthus assasi

Distribution and habitat: Distributed in the western Indian Ocean from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Oman. Lives in shallow sandy, rubble and coral reef areas; juveniles are particularly seen on reef flats. Can reach approximately 30 cm in length.

Interesting fact — Named not after Picasso, but from its appearance: The complex lines and strong color contrast resemble Picasso paintings, which is why it is known as "Picassofish" in English. The scientific species name assasi may derive from a local fish name used in the region.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? It roams just above the bottom in shallow reef flats. It can be seen investigating small benthic invertebrates among sand and rubble.

Note for divers: Look for this species especially in the final section of shallow dives; upper reef areas are more suitable than deep walls.

Note for photographers: A side shot best shows the lines around the eye and body pattern. Shallow water natural light preserves colors quite well.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Rhinecanthus assasi.

Bicolor parrotfish – Cetoscarus bicolor

Distribution and habitat: Cetoscarus bicolor is a parrotfish endemic to the Red Sea in the modern sense. It is found on reefs at approximately 1–30 m and feeds by scraping algae from reef surfaces.

Interesting fact — In parrotfishes, color, age and sex can change together: Young individuals look quite different with a white body and orange head, while large adults develop dominant green-blue tones. The complex life stages of parrotfishes can make identification underwater challenging.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for large fish using their beak to scrape algae from coral and rock surfaces. After feeding, it may leave faint light-colored scrape marks behind.

Note for divers: Observe the parrotfish not only as a colorful fish, but as an important herbivore reducing algal pressure on the reef.

Note for photographers: A cross front angle showing the beak and material being removed from the reef surface during feeding is highly valuable.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; FishBase, Cetoscarus bicolor.

Bullethead parrotfish – Chlorurus sordidus

Distribution and habitat: It is distributed in tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea. It uses various habitats from shallow reef flats to outer reef slopes.

Interesting fact — One of the reef's "scrapers": With its strong jaws and fused teeth, it scrapes algae-covered hard substrates. In doing so, it can also remove small amounts of calcium carbonate from the surface; thus contributing to the biological erosion of the reef surface.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to individuals taking small bites continuously across the reef. While feeding, they advance a few meters and then descend to the surface again.

Note for divers: If you hear "crunching" sounds in a quiet moment, some of these may come from parrotfishes scraping the reef.

Note for photographers: Focus on the head and beak during feeding; a frame showing behavior rather than just a side profile is more valuable.

Scientific source: Bellwood, D. R., & Choat, J. H. (1990). A functional analysis of grazing in parrotfishes. Environmental Biology of Fishes, 28, 189–214; Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes.

Bluespine unicornfish – Naso unicornis

Distribution and habitat: It has a very broad Indo-Pacific distribution from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and French Polynesia. It is found in channels, lagoons and outer reefs; especially in areas with strong wave and water movement. Adults can reach 70 cm and ages up to 55 years have been recorded.

Interesting fact — The horn develops later: The characteristic bony protrusion on the forehead is absent in juveniles; it begins to develop after approximately 12 cm body length. On the tail peduncle, there are two strong, sharp structures curving forward.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? It roams singly or in small groups at the edges of current-swept reefs. It may graze on brown macroalgae, particularly large-leafed algae.

Note for divers: In large individuals, look not only at the "horn" but also at the blue-colored sharp plates on the tail peduncle.

Note for photographers: A full side profile shows both the forehead protrusion and the blue cutting structures on the tail peduncle together.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (2001). Surgeonfishes of the world; FishBase, Naso unicornis.

Rabbitfishes – Siganus spp.

Distribution and habitat: Many Siganus species are found in the Red Sea. They are widespread in shallow rocky areas, coral reefs and algae-rich coastal zones.

Interesting fact — Herbivorous but strongly defended: The dorsal, anal and pelvic fin spines of rabbitfishes are associated with venom glands. For this reason, despite appearing calm, they should not be touched by hand.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for pairs or schools grazing algae on reef surfaces. In some species, night colors can differ markedly from daytime patterns.

Note for divers: Especially during night dives, do not touch stationary rabbitfishes; fin spines are effective as a defense mechanism.

Note for photographers: Photographing several individuals feeding together with the reef surface shows the herbivore's role in the reef ecosystem.

Scientific source: Woodland, D. J. (1990). Revision of the fish family Siganidae. Indo-Pacific Fishes, 19, 1–136.

Lionfish – Pterois miles

Distribution and habitat: Natural species of the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean. Found around reef walls, cave entrances, wrecks, and coral outcrops.

Interesting fact — Natural in the Red Sea, invasive in the Atlantic: Pterois miles, a natural part of the reef ecosystem in the Red Sea, has spread to the Eastern Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and has become invasive there. For this reason, the same species can be natural in one region and a problematic foreign species in another sea.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day it remains relatively motionless under caves and overhangs; at dusk and night it becomes more active to hunt small fish.

Note for divers: Dorsal spines are venomous. Check the surroundings carefully before placing your hand in caves in particular.

Note for photographers: The hunting behavior when it spreads its pectoral fins is much more valuable than the classic stationary lionfish portrait.

Scientific source: Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes. Immel Publishing; Golani, D., & Sonin, O. (1992). New records of the Red Sea fishes in the eastern Mediterranean.

Crocodilefish – Papilloculiceps longiceps

Distribution and habitat: Found in sandy and coral rubble habitats of the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean. Usually lies motionless on the bottom.

Interesting fact — There is a true camouflage curtain above the eyes: The branched skin projections on the eye surface disrupt the round contours of the eye, helping it blend in with sand and rubble substrates.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for long, flat-headed fish that remain "stone-still" in sandy areas. Often they do not move until the diver comes very close.

Note for divers: In the sand-reef transitions at Tiran and Sharm, do not look only for blue-spotted rays; crocodlefish can also hide in the same areas.

Note for photographers: It is good to take two different photographs: a close-up showing the structure of the screen over the eye and a wide frame showing the entire body camouflage.

Scientific source: Knapp, L. W. (1999). Platycephalidae. In FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes; Randall, J. E. (1986). Red Sea reef fishes.

Devil scorpionfish – Scorpaenopsis diabolus

Distribution and habitat: Lives in tropical Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea, in coral rubble, sandy and rocky reef bottoms.

Interesting fact — Colorful fins are only visible when moving: When motionless it looks like part of the reef. When threatened and opens its pectoral fins, striking colors on the inner side appear.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay particular attention to irregularly shaped stones. It can be hard to realize it is a fish until you notice the eye, mouth, and edge of the pectoral fin.

Note for divers: Always check before placing your hand on sand or rock. Dorsal spines in the scorpionfish group may be venomous.

Note for photographers: Do not force the animal to open its fins. Showing its camouflaged state together with the surrounding texture is more biologically meaningful.

Scientific source: Poss, S. G. (1999). Scorpaenidae. In FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes.

Stonefish – Synanceia spp.

Distribution and habitat: Benthic fish living in shallow rocky, sandy and coral rubble areas of the Indo-Pacific; also represented in the Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Has one of the world's most powerful venomous fish defenses: The venom glands at the base of the dorsal spines are for defense purposes. The venom is used against a threat that steps on or contacts it, not for capturing prey.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Rather than searching for the fish, look for irregularities in the substrate. The entire body except for the eyes and mouth can integrate with the substrate.

Note for divers: This is why the rule of not touching coral or bottom in the Red Sea is related not only to reef protection but also to diver safety.

Note for photographers: Leave some surroundings to show its camouflage. A very close portrait does not explain why the fish is so hard to notice.

Scientific source: Poss, S. G. (1999). Scorpaenidae. FAO.

9. Cephalopods

On the Sharm–Ras Mohammed–Tiran side, cephalopods should be sought especially on night dives, in shallow reef flats and sand-coral transitions. Large reef squid is also recorded from Egyptian Red Sea; the species has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution ranging from the Red Sea to the Pacific.

Large reef squid – Sepioteuthis lessoniana

Distribution and habitat: Has a wide Indo-Pacific distribution ranging from the Red Sea to East Africa, Japan, Australia, and the Western Pacific. It is a coastal, neritic species; found in reefs, rocky areas, seagrass beds, and shallow coastal habitats. Recorded between approximately 0–100 m and also occurs in Egyptian Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Its body is like a living screen: Thanks to chromatophores in its skin, it can change its color and pattern within seconds. These changes are used not only for camouflage but also in courtship behavior and communication between individuals.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for squid moving in small groups around the light source at night or over the reef. If you see two individuals swimming parallel to each other with rapidly changing dark-light patterns on their surface, you may be observing social or courtship behavior.

Note for divers: Do not continuously follow the squid with a bright flashlight. Keeping the light slightly to the side allows you to observe natural behavior for longer periods.

Note for photographers: Take short bursts instead of single frames. It is possible for the same individual to display completely different color patterns within a few seconds.

Scientific source: Jereb, P., & Roper, C. F. E. (Eds.). (2010). Cephalopods of the world. Volume 2. Myopsid and oegopsid squids. FAO; Lefkaditou, E., Corsini-Foka, M., & Kondilatos, G. (2009). Description of the first Lessepsian squid migrant, Sepioteuthis lessoniana, in the Aegean Sea. Mediterranean Marine Science, 10(2), 87–98.

Daytime octopus / Reef octopus – Octopus cyanea

Distribution and habitat: A common octopus in shallow rocky and coral reefs of tropical Indo-Pacific. Uses reef cracks, undersides of coral blocks, sand-reef transitions, and small caves.

Interesting fact — It changes not just color, but also the shape of its body surface: The octopus does not only change its pigments; it can raise and lower papilla structures in its skin to mimic the appearance of rough rock, coral, or sand. The same animal can transform into a smooth, spotted, or spiny surface within seconds.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Instead of searching directly for the octopus, look for its traces. Empty bivalve shells accumulated at a cave entrance, broken crab pieces, or small stone piles can reveal a den entrance.

Note for divers: Do not put your hand into the octopus's lair or try to pull the animal out. If you remain stationary a few meters away, it may become curious and come back out.

Note for photographers: To document color change, take several frames from the same angle. The same individual camouflaged in the reef in one photo and color-shifted in another creates a powerful behavioral sequence.

Scientific source: Hanlon, R. T., & Messenger, J. B. (2018). Cephalopod behaviour (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.

Cuttlefish – Sepia spp.

Distribution and habitat: Various Sepia species are found in the Red Sea. Sandy, seagrass, rubble, and soft substrates around reef edges are typical habitats.

Interesting fact — They have a natural buoyancy system inside: The cuttlebone, the internal shell of cuttlefish, consists of many small chambers. The balance of gas and liquid in these chambers helps the animal maintain a certain depth in the water without expending excessive energy.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to individuals hovering almost motionless a few centimeters above sand and blending into the substrate through color change. During mating season, males may display strong striped contrast patterns.

Note for divers: Especially during night dives, slowly sweep the flashlight beam across sandy areas. Eye reflection of the light can reveal a camouflaged individual before the body.

Note for photographers: A slight frontal angle rather than a full profile view shows the eyes and arms better. Capturing two individuals in the same frame during mating behavior is particularly valuable.

Scientific source: Jereb, P., & Roper, C. F. E. (Eds.). (2005). Cephalopods of the world. Volume 1. Chambered nautiluses and sepioids. FAO.

10. Nudibranchs and other macro organisms

It is better to use broad generalizations like "Nembrotha spp." from the previous list with some caution here. It is more scientifically sound to highlight species with reliable records from the Red Sea on the web page and group the rest under the heading "nudibranchs".

Spanish dancer – Hexabranchus sanguineus species complex

Distribution and habitat: The Hexabranchus group of large nudibranchs living in tropical reefs from the Red Sea to the Indo-Pacific was long classified under a single H. sanguineus name. Recent taxonomic work has shown the group to be more complex than previously thought; Red Sea material has historically been identified within this complex.

Interesting fact — The "dance" is actually an escape movement: When disturbed, it can open its wide mantle edges and undulate its body to swim freely. The Spanish dancer name was given because this movement of the red-white mantle edges resembles a Spanish flamenco skirt.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for large red or orange nudibranchs moving across the reef surface at night. During the day they may mostly hide under cracks.

Note for divers: Do not touch the animal to see it swim. This movement is an escape behavior; observe it if it occurs naturally.

Note for photographers: If you catch a swimming individual, use a wide angle to fit the entire undulating mantle edge in the frame. For individuals on the substrate, the rhinophores and gill crown are good macro targets.

Scientific source: Tibiriçá, Y., Pola, M., & Cervera, J. L. (2023). A Spanish dancer? No! A troupe of dancers: A review of the family Hexabranchidae. Organisms Diversity & Evolution.

Phyllidia nudibranchs – Phyllidia spp.

Distribution and habitat: Various Phyllidia species are found in Indo-Pacific and Red Sea coral reefs. They are generally seen on hard substrates rich in sponges.

Interesting information — Bright colors are a warning: High-contrast patterns such as black, yellow, blue, or white are examples of aposematic coloration. These organisms may utilize defensive chemicals they obtain from the sponges they feed on or produce through their own metabolism.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for small organisms moving slowly over sponges and reef surfaces, with distinct bubbles on their backs.

Note for divers: Do not assume that two individuals appearing the same color are the same species. In nudibranch identification, the rhinophore, dorsal tubercles, and placement of the color pattern should be evaluated together.

Note for photographers: A slightly side-lit shot close to eye level shows the animal's three-dimensional structure better than an overhead shot.

Scientific source: Brunckhorst, D. J. (1993). The systematics and phylogeny of phyllidiid nudibranchs. Records of the Australian Museum, Supplement 16, 1–107.

Phyllidiella nudibranchs – Phyllidiella spp.

Distribution and habitat: Found associated with sponges on tropical Indo-Pacific reefs. Phyllidiid nudibranchs are also striking members of the reef macrofauna in the Red Sea.

Interesting information — Gills are invisible: While many nudibranchs have a prominent gill crown on their backs, members of Phyllidiidae have their gill structures hidden on the lateral-ventral regions of the body. For this reason, they lack the classic nudibranch "flower" on their backs.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for small, brightly colored pink-black or high-contrast patterned individuals around sponge surfaces.

Note for divers: For macro life, look not only at corals but also at sponges; the distribution of many nudibranchs is determined by the sponges they feed on.

Note for photographers: Try to focus on the rhinophores. Since the black-pink contrast can easily blow out in strong light, use flash power carefully.

Scientific source: Brunckhorst, D. J. (1993). The systematics and phylogeny of phyllidiid nudibranchs. Records of the Australian Museum, Supplement 16, 1–107.

Chromodorid nudibranchs – Chromodorididae

Distribution and habitat: Chromodorid nudibranchs with various colors and patterns are found on coral reefs in the Red Sea. Most species feed on specific sponge groups.

Interesting information — Their colors are more about chemical defense than beauty: The bright colors of this group may signal to predators "do not eat me." Some species store toxic or unpalatable compounds obtained from sponges in their bodies.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for several-centimeter-sized individuals moving slowly over or beside small sponges. While feeding, they may leave small scraped areas on the sponge.

Note for divers: The name "Chromodoris" was used very broadly in older literature; today many species have been transferred to Goniobranchus and other genera. Therefore, when identifying from photographs, it is necessary to check current taxonomy.

Note for photographers: A slight diagonal angle that brings the rhinophores and gill crown into the same focal plane is one of the best macro compositions for most species.

Scientific source: Johnson, R. F., & Gosliner, T. M. (2012). Traditional taxonomic groupings mask evolutionary history: A molecular phylogeny and new classification of the chromodorid nudibranchs. PLoS ONE, 7(4), e33479.

Aeolid nudibranchs – Cladobranchia

Distribution and habitat: Various cladobranch nudibranchs associated with hydroids, anemones, and other cnidarians live on Red Sea reefs.

Interesting information — They can steal their prey's defensive weapons: Some aeolid nudibranchs, after feeding on cnidarians, may store unfired nematocysts at the tips of their body extensions rather than digesting them. This allows them to use the stinging cells of their prey for their own defense.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for very small, delicate nudibranchs with numerous cerata on or near hydroid colonies.

Note for divers: This group is usually smaller than a few centimeters. Careful inspection with a flashlight is needed without touching the hydroids.

Note for photographers: High magnification is useful to show the tips of the cerata and the rhinophores in sharp focus.

Scientific source: Greenwood, P. G. (2009). Acquisition and use of nematocysts by cnidarian predators. Toxicon, 54(8), 1065–1070.

Sea hares – Aplysiidae

Distribution and habitat: Various sea hare species can be seen in the Red Sea in shallow rocky areas, seagrass beds, and around reef margins.

Interesting information — They can use ink for defense: Some sea hares may release purple-red secretions when disturbed. This secretion not only creates a visual screen but can also affect a predator's chemical senses.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for soft-bodied gastropods moving slowly on algae-covered rocky surfaces. During certain periods, multiple individuals may be seen in the same area.

Note for divers: Do not touch to provoke ink release; this is a stress and defense behavior.

Note for photographers: Due to the "ear"-like rhinophores on the head, a slightly low-angle front shot gives the frame that best explains the animal's name.

Scientific source: Carefoot, T. H. (1987). Aplysia: Its biology and ecology. Oceanography and Marine Biology: An Annual Review, 25, 167–284.

Polyclad flatworms – Polycladida

Distribution and habitat: Many colorful polyclad species can be found on rocks, coral rubble, and sponge surfaces in Red Sea coral reefs.

Interesting fact — Not nudibranchs: Due to their bright colors, divers often mistake them for nudibranchs. However, they are flatworms; they lack true gill crowns and rhinophores.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for organisms that move like a thin film over the reef surface, with undulating edges. Some can perform brief swimming movements.

Note for divers: If a "nudibranch" looks unusually thin and flat, consider the possibility that it is a polyclad.

Note for photographers: Shooting from slightly above reveals all color patterns; a low angle better captures the undulation of the thin body edges.

Scientific source: Newman, L. J., & Cannon, L. R. G. (2003). Marine flatworms: The world of polyclads. CSIRO Publishing.

11. Crustaceans

This section becomes particularly important during night dives. Many crustaceans that hide in crevices during the day emerge onto the reef surface after dark. Therefore, on Sharm–Tiran night dives, it is necessary to look not only at fish but also at small cave entrances, undersides of sponges, and coral cracks.

Painted spiny lobster – Panulirus versicolor

Distribution and habitat: It is distributed in tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea. It lives in coral and rocky reefs, especially in caves and deep crevices. It hides during the day and comes out at night to feed.

Interesting fact — A lobster but without large claws: Members of the genus Panulirus lack the large claws seen in classical lobsters. Instead, their very long antennae and spiny bodies are important defensive tools.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day, you may notice two long antennae extending out from the cave entrance. At night, the animal can be seen completely exposed as it walks.

Note for divers: Do not pull on the antennae inside the cave or attempt to bring the animal out. The presence of the antennae usually already reveals the lobster inside.

Note for photographers: In night shots, the reflection in the eyes and the diagonal lines formed by the long antennae create a strong composition.

Scientific source: Holthuis, L. B. (1991). FAO species catalogue. Vol. 13. Marine lobsters of the world. FAO.

Cleaner shrimp – Lysmata spp.

Distribution and habitat: Various Lysmata species are found in Red Sea reefs. They live in caves, coral outcrops, and especially around cleaning stations regularly visited by fish.

Interesting fact — A tiny shrimp can enter the mouth of a large moray: Cleaner shrimp can remove parasites or dead tissue from the skin, mouth, and gill area of fish. The fact that large predatory fish do not hunt the shrimp during this time is one of the most striking examples of mutually beneficial cleaning relationships.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? If a moray, grouper, or other large fish is stationary at a certain point, look closely. Small shrimp may be working around the head and mouth.

Note for divers: Do not enter between the cleaning station. The large fish's unusually stationary position is often the first sign that the behavior has begun.

Note for photographers: Rather than photographing the shrimp alone, documenting it working on the moray's mouth or on a large fish is a far more valuable behavioral frame.

Scientific source: Becker, J. H. A., Curtis, L. M., & Grutter, A. S. (2005). Cleaner shrimp use a rocking dance to advertise cleaning service to clients. Current Biology, 15, 760–764.

Banded coral shrimp – Stenopus hispidus

Distribution and habitat: This species has a very wide distribution in tropical seas and is also found in Red Sea reefs. It is often seen in pairs inside caves, overhangs, and crevices.

Interesting fact — Its long white antennae work like an advertisement sign: Individuals exhibiting cleaning behavior extend their long antennae visibly outward. Fish can use these visual signals to find the cleaning station.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Before noticing the small red-and-white striped shrimp inside the cave, you may notice its very long white antennae.

Note for divers: When you find one, check the area around it; often there is a second individual nearby.

Note for photographers: Try not to cut the antennae from the frame. They can be several times longer than the animal's body, which complicates the photograph, but they also define the character of the species.

Scientific source: Limbaugh, C., Pederson, H., & Chace, F. A. (1961). Shrimps that clean fishes. Bulletin of Marine Science of the Gulf and Caribbean, 11, 237–257.

Mantis shrimp – Stomatopoda

Distribution and habitat: Different mantis shrimp species live in sandy burrows, coral rubble, and rock holes in Red Sea reefs.

Interesting fact — Members of the same group use two different weapon systems: Stomatopods are roughly divided into "smashers" and "spearers" based on the structure of their hunting limbs. One group delivers powerful blows to hard-shelled prey while others use pointed limbs to catch fish and soft prey.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for moving eyes observing you from within a small, regular hole in the sand. Some species protrude only their head and eyes from the burrow entrance.

Note for divers: Do not attempt to pull the animal out of its burrow. The raptorial appendages of stomatopods are extremely fast.

Note for photographers: Focus on the eyes. The stalked eyes that move independently of each other are the most striking detail of a mantis shrimp photograph.

Scientific source: Patek, S. N., Korff, W. L., & Caldwell, R. L. (2004). Deadly strike mechanism of a mantis shrimp. Nature, 428, 819–820.

Boxer / Pom-pom crabs – Lybia spp.

Distribution and habitat: Small Lybia species can be found in reef crevices and under rocks in the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea. Due to their small size, they are usually noticed during night dives.

Interesting fact — They carry live sea anemones in their claws: The crab can hold a small sea anemone in each of its claws. It uses them for gathering food and defense. The image of holding two pom-poms in its hands gives it the name "boxer crab" or "pom-pom crab".

Behavior — what should a diver look for? At night, carefully observe crabs a few centimeters in size moving around small rocks. Identification is facilitated by seeing two symmetrical anemones at the tips of the claws.

Note for divers: Do not flip the crab or pick it up to see the anemones better.

Note for photographers: A head-on shot showing both anemones at the same time is the best angle for illustrating the biological characteristics of the behavior.

Scientific source: Schnytzer, Y., et al. (2017). Boxer crabs induce asexual reproduction of their associated sea anemones by splitting and intraspecific theft. PeerJ, 5, e2954.

Porcelain crabs – Porcellanidae

Distribution and habitat: Small crustaceans that live under corals, anemones, and rock fragments. They are also represented by various species in Red Sea reefs.

Interesting fact — They look like crabs but are not true crabs: Porcelain crabs belong to the Anomura group and are closer relatives to hermit crabs than to true crabs.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? You can observe the animal rhythmically opening and closing hairy appendages around its mouth toward the water. These are specialized mouth extensions that filter plankton and organic particles from the water.

Note for divers: If you see a small crab between an anemone, look not only at its colors but also at its feeding movements.

Note for photographers: Capturing the moment when the fan-shaped mouth appendages are open is far more informative than a simple portrait.

Scientific source: Osawa, M., & McLaughlin, P. A. (2010). Annotated checklist of anomuran decapod crustaceans of the world. The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology, Supplement 23, 109–129.

Hermit crabs – Paguroidea

Distribution and habitat: Numerous species are found in the Red Sea from shallow reefs to deeper hard bottoms.

Interesting fact — They don't make their own shells: To protect their soft and asymmetrical abdomen, they mostly use gastropod shells. As they grow, they must find larger shells.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? At night, watch for "walking snail shells". If the shell is moving, antennae and legs may protrude from it.

Note for divers: This is also a good reason not to collect shells you think are empty; they may contain living creatures.

Note for photographers: Wait for the animal to fully emerge. Showing both the shell and the crab together completes the story.

Scientific source: McLaughlin, P. A., et al. (2010). Annotated checklist of anomuran decapod crustaceans of the world. The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology, Supplement 23.

12. Corals and other invertebrates

The distinguishing feature of the Red Sea is not only large pelagics. Corals, sponges, gorgonians, and other benthic invertebrates form an important part of the three-dimensional habitat surrounding the diver. Particularly in Ras Mohammed and Tiran, this section should be one of the essential parts of the species list.

Table and branching corals – Acropora spp.

Distribution and habitat: Acropora is one of the species-rich and ecologically important hard coral groups of Red Sea coral reefs. It forms table, shrubby, and branching colonies.

Interesting fact — A coral colony is also a three-dimensional living space: Branching colonies provide numerous microhabitats for small fish, crabs, and other invertebrates. Therefore, a large Acropora colony can be thought of not just as a single animal, but as a small "apartment building".

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look for damselfish, small gobies, and crustaceans between the branches. When a large fish approaches, all the small fish can disappear into the colony within seconds.

Note for divers: Branching species are sensitive to fin strokes and physical contact. Good buoyancy control is especially necessary during strong current dives.

Note for photographers: Shoot the colony and the school of fish over it with a wide angle; this better shows the coral's habitat-forming function.

Scientific source: Veron, J. E. N. (2000). Corals of the world. Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Cauliflower corals – Pocillopora spp.

Distribution and habitat: Common branching hard corals in shallow and wave-exposed reefs of the Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Surprising diversity can hide within a small colony: Its densely branched structure provides shelter for small crustaceans, fish larvae, and other invertebrates.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Don't just look at the coral itself; examine the small creatures living among the branches.

Note for divers: Despite appearing small and sturdy, colony branches break easily.

Note for photographers: Macro close focus with wide angle is suitable to show both coral texture and surrounding reef.

Scientific source: Veron, J. E. N. (2000). Corals of the world. Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Stylophora corals – Stylophora spp.

Distribution and habitat: Branching hard corals visible from shallow reefs to deeper reef slopes in the Red Sea.

Interesting fact — One of the model organisms in Red Sea coral research: Particularly the Stylophora pistillata species complex has been extensively used in studies of coral physiology, symbiosis, and temperature tolerance.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? During the day the colony surface may appear calm; at night you can see the polyps opening more prominently.

Note for divers: Seeing the same colony during day and night clearly demonstrates that the coral is not just "rock" but an active animal colony.

Note for photographers: Shoot open polyps at night macro; a completely different structure emerges from the daytime image.

Scientific source: Veron, J. E. N. (2000). Corals of the world; Loya, Y. (1976). The Red Sea coral Stylophora pistillata is an r strategist. Nature, 259, 478–480.

Porites corals – Porites spp.

Distribution and habitat: Important reef-building corals in the Red Sea capable of forming massive and branching forms.

Interesting fact — Some colonies can live far beyond human lifespan: Large massive colonies grow very slowly and add environmental records to their skeletons over many years. Skeletal growth bands can be used in studying past ocean conditions.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Search for small Christmas-tree worms, fish, and other epibionts on the surface of large dome-shaped colonies.

Note for divers: A large Porites colony that appears to be a solid rock may actually be a coral colony that has lived for a very long time.

Note for photographers: Including a safe distance diver in the frame to show scale explains the colony's size.

Scientific source: Veron, J. E. N. (2000). Corals of the world. Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Fire corals – Millepora spp.

Distribution and habitat: In the Red Sea they form branching or plate-like colonies particularly on shallow, wave and current-exposed reefs.

Interesting fact — Although coral is in its name, it is not a true hard coral: Millepora belongs to the class Hydrozoa and is more closely related to hydroids than to stony corals. Its nematocysts can cause a distinct burning sensation on contact.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for yellow-brown, finely branched or plate-shaped colonies.

Note for divers: Do not touch. The name "fire coral" is no coincidence; its stinging cells can cause painful reactions on human skin.

Note for photographers: Close focus wide angle showing colony form and surrounding fish together produces good results.

Scientific source: Lewis, J. B. (2006). Biology and ecology of the hydrocoral Millepora on coral reefs. Advances in Marine Biology, 50, 1–55.

Soft corals – Alcyonacea

Distribution and habitat: Red Sea reef walls and current-swept areas host diverse soft coral communities.

Interesting fact — Current is like their nutrient transport system: Many soft corals capture plankton and organic particles from the water column with their polyps. For this reason, dense colonies can develop on walls with strong currents.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Watch for polyps opened toward the current direction. The colony's appearance can change noticeably when the current stops.

Note for divers: The color richness on current-swept walls is no accident; water movement simultaneously delivers constant nutrition to these animals.

Note for photographers: Use wide angle and artificial light. Since red and orange tones are rapidly lost with depth, flash restores true colors.

Scientific source: Fabricius, K. E., & Alderslade, P. (2001). Soft corals and sea fans. Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Gorgonians / Sea fans – Octocorallia

Distribution and habitat: Large fan-shaped colonies can be seen particularly on current-swept reef walls and promontories.

Interesting fact — The fan's direction is not random: The colony often positions its broad surface perpendicular to the dominant current to increase plankton capture efficiency.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Small fish, crustaceans, and other symbiotic organisms can be found among the branches of large gorgonians.

Note for divers: By observing the position of a large sea fan, you can get a clue about the dominant water movement in the reef.

Note for photographers: Placing the diver behind or beside the gorgon provides scale; however, care should be taken not to approach the colony from above.

Scientific source: Fabricius, K. E., & Alderslade, P. (2001). Soft corals and sea fans. AIMS.

Black corals – Antipatharia

Distribution and habitat: They are found particularly in deeper reef walls and current-swept areas of the Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Most do not appear black when alive: The name "black coral" comes not from the colony's living tissue but from the dark color of its internal skeleton. Living colonies can appear yellow, orange, brown, or other colors.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? On deep walls, look for shrub or whip-shaped colonies.

Note for divers: Do not identify black corals by their color; the external color of the living colony is misleading.

Note for photographers: Use two scales: close-up to show polyps, and wide-angle for colony form.

Scientific source: Wagner, D., Luck, D. G., & Toonen, R. J. (2012). The biology and ecology of black corals. Advances in Marine Biology, 63, 67–132.

Giant clams – Tridacna spp.

Distribution and habitat: Tridacna species are found in shallow, light-exposed coral reefs of the Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Despite being a bivalve, it also benefits from solar energy: Photosynthetic symbionts living in mantle tissues harness light energy and make a significant contribution to the host's energy budget. For this reason, giant clams typically live in shallow waters where light is strong.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Pay attention to the broad mantle tissue with blue, green, or brown patterns. When shade falls over it, the mantle can retract quickly.

Note for divers: Do not try to provoke a closure response by placing your hand over the animal; this is unnecessary stress behavior.

Note for photographers: Shooting from above at a slight angle shows both the mantle pattern and the siphons together.

Scientific source: Rosewater, J. (1965). The family Tridacnidae in the Indo-Pacific. Indo-Pacific Mollusca, 1, 347–396.

Sponges – Porifera

Distribution and habitat: The Red Sea reefs host diverse sponge communities ranging from caves to open reef surfaces.

Interesting fact — A sponge can filter water far exceeding its own volume: Sponges continuously pump water through the canal system in their bodies; they filter bacteria and small organic particles from the water.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Look at nudibranchs, small crustaceans, and other epibionts living on the sponge itself.

Note for divers: Sponges appear motionless but are important parts of the reef's water filtration system.

Note for photographers: If searching for macro life, examine sponge surfaces particularly carefully; they are a food source for many nudibranchs.

Scientific source: Bell, J. J. (2008). The functional roles of marine sponges. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 79, 341–353.

Sea cucumbers – Holothuroidea

Distribution and habitat: Various species are found in sandy areas, lagoons, reef flats, and broken coral areas.

Interesting fact — They are the reef's sediment workers: Many sea cucumbers ingest sand and sediment containing organic material, digest the digestible portion, and expel the cleaned sediment back out. In doing so, they contribute to sediment mixing and biogeochemical cycles.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? The processed sediment trails left behind the animal can reveal its feeding activity.

Note for divers: Despite appearing motionless and insignificant, they play an important role in the reef sediment cycle.

Note for photographers: Rather than a portrait alone, include the feeding trail in the frame to show its ecological function.

Scientific source: Purcell, S. W., Conand, C., Uthicke, S., & Byrne, M. (2016). Ecological roles of exploited sea cucumbers. Oceanography and Marine Biology: An Annual Review, 54, 367–386.

Feather stars – Crinoidea

Distribution and habitat: In the Red Sea reefs, they can particularly be seen exposed at night and in current-swept areas.

Interesting fact — They look like plants but are animals: Their numerous feathery arms serve to capture plankton and organic particles in the water column.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Individuals hidden in crevices during the day can emerge onto the reef at night and open their arms to the current.

Note for divers: During night dives, carefully observe structures that look like "opened flowers."

Note for photographers: The spiral and repeating patterns of the arms create very powerful compositions for macro photography.

Scientific source: Messing, C. G. (1997). Living comatulids. Paleontological Society Papers, 3, 3–30.

Brittle stars – Ophiuroidea

Distribution and habitat: Many diverse species live under corals, sponges, and rocks. They become more visible at night.

Interesting fact — They can lose and regenerate their arms: An arm can break off during an attack; many species can regenerate the lost arm over time.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? At night, watch for very thin, moving arms extending from sponge and coral holes.

Note for divers: You don't need to see the entire animal; most often only a few arms extend out of the reef.

Note for photographers: An image of arms extending from a reef cavity tells the story of night life very well.

Scientific source: Stöhr, S., O'Hara, T. D., & Thuy, B. (2012). Global diversity of brittle stars. PLoS ONE, 7(3), e31940.

Sea urchins – Echinoidea

Distribution and habitat: Many species of sea urchins are found on rocky and coral reefs of the Red Sea; many are more active at night.

Interesting fact — important herbivores that control algal coverage on the reef: Sea urchins feed by scraping algae off hard surfaces. A significant decline in their populations can lead to an increase in algae on some reefs.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? At night, you can observe individuals emerging from crevices and actively grazing on the reef surface.

Note for divers: When night diving, it is especially important not to place your hands on rocks and corals; long-spined species can easily be missed in the dark.

Note for photographers: Check not only the sea urchin itself, but also small symbiotic organisms hiding on it or among its spines.

Scientific source: Lessios, H. A. (1988). Mass mortality of Diadema antillarum in the Caribbean. Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics, 19, 371–393; for general Echinoidea ecology, see Lawrence, J. M. (Ed.). (2013). Sea urchins: Biology and ecology. Elsevier.

13. Marine life to specifically search for on night dives

Night diving in the Red Sea reveals a different face of the reef than what is seen during the day. While many predators that hide in caves and crevices during the day begin to move about openly, some invertebrates emerge onto the reef surface to feed. Therefore, on a night dive, you should look not only at the large fish in front of your light, but also at sandy areas, small cave entrances, and movement between corals.

Giant moray – Gymnothorax javanicus

Where to look? Look around caves and large crevices where you see its head during the day. At night, it can come completely out and move across the reef.

What behavior to search for? Hunting by following scent trails on the reef, pursuing small fish or octopuses, and encountering other morays are particularly interesting.

Note for divers: Don't block the path of a moray moving in the open. Opening and closing its mouth is usually a breathing movement.

Photo target: Instead of the classic head portrait in a cave, an individual moving with its entire body across the reef.

Day octopus – Octopus cyanea

Where to look? Around coral blocks, small rock cavities, and sand-reef transitions.

What behavior to search for? Color and skin texture changes, hunting, searching under rocks, and crab hunting.

Note for divers: Don't approach immediately after spotting an octopus. If you remain still for a while, it may abandon its camouflage and resume moving.

Photo target: Two different colors or skin textures displayed by the same individual seconds apart.

Giant reef squid – Sepioteuthis lessoniana

Where to look? Open water just above the reef, shallow reef flats, and the edge of night light.

What behavior to search for? Individuals following each other, courtship behavior, and wave-like color changes traveling across the body.

Note for divers: Instead of chasing a squid school with direct bright light, angle your light slightly to the side.

Photo target: Two individuals displaying different color patterns during communication or courtship.

Cuttlefish – Sepia spp.

Where to look? On sandy and coral rubble bottoms, especially around small reef blocks.

What behavior to search for? Camouflage, hunting approach, courtship behavior, and visual displays between males.

Note for divers: Don't only search for movement on the bottom. A completely still cuttlefish can blend almost completely with the substrate through color and texture.

Photo target: Transition from camouflage to distinct color pattern.

Spanish dancer – Hexabranchus spp.

Where to look? On open reef surfaces at night and around sponges.

What behavior to search for? Normal crawling behavior; when naturally disturbed, it can open its broad mantle and swim.

Note for divers: Don't touch the animal to see its "dance." Swimming is not a display but an escape behavior.

Photo target: An individual naturally beginning to swim with its open mantle edges, or on the bottom, the rhinophore and gill structures of the individual.

Painted spiny lobster – Panulirus versicolor

Where to look? Outside the caves and crevices where they hide during the day.

What behavior to search for? Walking on the reef and foraging.

Note for divers: You will see the antennae first; by slowly following them with your light, you can notice the entire animal.

Photo target: An individual walking across the open reef with its long antennae.

Mantis shrimp – Stomatopoda

Where to look? Small holes in sandy areas, coral rubble, and under rocks.

What behavior to search for? Observing the surroundings from the burrow entrance and very short, extremely fast strikes for hunting.

Note for divers: Two moving eyes looking at you from a small hole are sometimes noticed before the animal itself.

Photo subject: Close-up of eyes that can move independently in different directions.

Cleaner shrimp – Lysmata spp. and Stenopus hispidus

Where to look? Caves with moray eels and cleaning stations regularly used by fish.

What behavior to look for? Cleaning around the mouth and gills of large fish.

Diver's note: If a large fish is unusually still, don't pass by immediately; a small cleaner may be working.

Photo subject: Shrimp working in the open mouth of a moray eel.

Hermit crabs – Paguroidea

Where to look? Sandy areas, coral rubble, and reef flats.

What behavior to look for? Carrying shells, feeding, and searching for suitable new shells.

Diver's note: Watch a small gastropod shell that seems to move on its own for a few seconds.

Photo subject: The moment the crab's body extends sufficiently from the shell.

Feather stars – Crinoidea

Where to look? On corals and gorgonians exposed to current.

What behavior to look for? Filter feeding with arms fully opened toward the current.

Diver's note: An individual closed during the day may open like a flower at night.

Photo subject: Symmetrical image with all arms open or small symbiotic organisms living between the arms.

Brittle stars – Ophiuroidea

Where to look? In sponges, coral crevices, and rock crevices.

What behavior to look for? Extending arms out at night to gather food.

Diver's note: Don't search for the whole animal; a few thin moving arms protruding from the reef can reveal its presence.

Photo subject: Multiple thin arms emerging from within coral or sponge.

Sea urchins – Echinoidea

Where to look? Rock surfaces, reef flats, and crevice surroundings.

What behavior to look for? Active grazing at night.

Diver's note: Long-spined sea urchins are one of the main reasons not to put your hand on the bottom during night dives.

Photo subject: Small fish or crustaceans hiding among the spines, if present.

Lionfish – Pterois miles

Where to look? Coral heads, around small fish schools, and cave entrances.

What behavior to look for? Using broad pectoral fins to corner small fish while hunting at night.

Diver's note: Observing a lionfish hunting at night shows the species' true predatory behavior better than a stationary daytime individual.

Photo subject: Hunting position with pectoral fins fully spread.

Small tip for divers on night dives

Instead of constantly pointing your light forward, occasionally direct it to the bottom and side surfaces of the reef. A reef that is "fish diving" during the day largely becomes "invertebrate diving" at night. Also try to understand not just finding creatures, but what they are doing. An octopus changing color, a cuttlefish hunting, or a moray eel being cleaned is a more valuable observation than a single species record.

14. Species to look for particularly in wrecks

Red Sea wrecks are not just historical structures. Metal surfaces become colonized over time by sponges, hydroids, soft corals, and other sessile organisms; gaps provide hiding and hunting areas for fish. On the BDE route, especially in wrecks like Numidia and Aida around Big Brother, the life developing on the wreck itself should be observed as much as the wreck itself.

Giant moray – Gymnothorax javanicus

Where to look? Pipes, under metal plates, and dark openings.

What behavior to look for? Hiding, hunting at night, and cleaning.

Photo subject: Moray head emerging from rusty metal; include the wreck habitat in the frame along with the natural reef.

Lionfish – Pterois miles

Where to look? Dark compartments, under beams, and around small fish schools.

What behavior to look for? Hunting small fish like glassfish by cornering them with pectoral fins.

Photo subject: Predator with wreck structure in the background and small fish school around it.

Crocodilefish – Papilloculiceps longiceps

Where to look? Sandy areas around the wreck, beside metal pieces, and debris areas.

What behavior to look for? Waiting in ambush camouflaged.

Photo subject: A wide frame showing how well the fish blends into its surroundings.

Scorpionfish – Scorpaenopsis spp.

Where to look? Rusted metal, sponge, and coral-covered surfaces.

What behavior to look for? Motionless ambush hunting.

Diver's note: Always check before touching the wreck. The fish's texture integrates surprisingly well with the metal surface.

Photo subject: A "camouflage frame" that doesn't immediately reveal the fish, followed by a close-up.

Glassfish

Where to look? Dark interior spaces, shaded decks, and under metal protrusions.

What behavior to look for? Thousands of small individuals forming very tight schools and the school changing shape when a predator approaches.

Diver's note: When you see a glassfish school, look for lionfish, trevally, and grouper around it.

Photo subject: School completely filling the wreck opening and if possible a predator in the frame.

Batfish – Platax spp.

Where to look? Poles, ropes, superstructure and open-water-facing sections of the wreck.

What behavior to search for? Circling the wreck in small groups.

Photo target: Several batfish silhouettes against the geometric metal lines of the wreck.

Barracudas – Sphyraena spp.

Where to look? Directly above the wreck and on the current-facing side.

What behavior to search for? Hovering in schools in the current or following small fish schools.

Photo target: School of barracudas suspended above the wreck.

Trevally – Carangidae

Where to look? Around glassfish and fusilier schools, on the open-water side of the wreck.

What behavior to search for? Swift attacks on schools.

Photo target: Trevally splitting a small fish school. Such a frame can alone tell the story of the wreck's ecological function.

Groupers – Epinephelinae

Where to look? Large openings, engine compartments and beneath metal plates.

What behavior to search for? Ambush waiting and cleaning behavior.

Photo target: Large grouper with the wreck's structural scale.

Nudibranchs

Where to look? Wreck surfaces covered with sponges, hydroids and other benthic organisms.

What behavior to search for? Feeding on sponges and egg ribbons.

Note for divers: Don't get caught up in the large wreck view and miss the small life. A nudibranch just a few centimeters long may be using a completely different microhabitat on the wreck.

Photo target: Nudibranch + the sponge it feeds on; spiral-shaped egg mass if present.

Sponges – Porifera

Where to look? On shaded and vertical metal surfaces that have been submerged for a long time.

What behavior to search for? No movement seen; however, look for nudibranchs and small crustaceans living on the sponge.

Photo target: Wide angle showing how a metal surface transforms into a living benthic community over time.

Soft corals – Alcyonacea

Where to look? On railings, poles and superstructure where current hits directly.

What behavior to search for? Polyps fully extended during the current.

Photo target: Colorful soft corals developing on rusty wreck structure. This contrast is one of the most powerful compositions in Red Sea wreck photography.

Diver's viewing order at a wreck

When you arrive at a wreck, instead of just examining the hull, you can practically use this sequence: first look to open water — sharks, tuna, barracudas and trevally; then over the wreck — batfish and schooling fish; then into openings — grouper, moray and lionfish; finally close to the metal surface — scorpionfish, nudibranch, sponges and small crustaceans.

This method especially transforms diving on BDE wrecks like Numidia and Aida from merely "seeing a wreck" into a real wreck ecology observation.

15. Marine mammals and species to search for during boat transfers

On open ocean routes like BDE, the most accurate approach to marine mammals is to present them not as "species to be seen during diving," but rather as species that may be encountered during boat transfers. To date, 16 cetacean species have been confirmed in the Red Sea; some are regularly seen, while others are rare or occasional. Spinner dolphins, two species of bottlenose dolphins, Risso's dolphin and pantropical spotted dolphins are reliable recorded members of the Red Sea fauna.

Spinner dolphin – Stenella longirostris

Distribution and habitat: Widely distributed in tropical and subtropical seas. Well documented in the Red Sea, particularly in central and southern Egypt. They may use sheltered reef and lagoon systems like Samadai Reef as daytime resting and socializing areas; at night they venture into open waters to feed.

Interesting fact — Named for its aerial spins: When leaping from the water, it can spin several times around its body axis. While this behavior appears showy, it should not be interpreted merely as "play"; it may have various functions such as social communication, excitement or parasite removal.

Behavior — what should a diver watch for? During boat travel, watch for small, slender dolphin groups splashing from the surface or approaching the bow. However, if a group of spinner dolphins is observed resting slowly and calmly in a sheltered reef during the day, this area may be a resting habitat.

Note for divers: Swimming to approach a resting dolphin group, moving between group members or pursuing them with the boat is not appropriate. Studies at Samadai have shown that the use of these reefs as daytime resting areas requires particular attention in tourism management.

Note for photographers: Group behavior is as important as a single leaping dolphin in surface photography. Capturing the leap sequence in burst mode works well; if underwater, maintain a parallel position without cutting off the school's path.

Scientific source: Notarbartolo di Sciara, G., Hanafy, M. H., Fouda, M. M., Afifi, A., & Costa, M. (2009). Spinner dolphin Stenella longirostris resting habitat in Samadai Reef (Egypt, Red Sea) protected through tourism management. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 89(1), 211–216.

Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin – Tursiops aduncus

Distribution and habitat: It is distributed in warm coastal waters of the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific. It has also been documented in the Egyptian Red Sea, in the northern protected islands around Hurghada. Generally more dependent on coastal areas and reef systems than Tursiops truncatus.

Interesting fact — Distinguishing the two "bottlenose" species is not always easy: T. aduncus and T. truncatus can look quite similar from a distance. T. aduncus is generally smaller and more slender; dark spots may develop on the ventral region of adult individuals.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Can be seen in small to medium-sized groups around coastal reefs and islands. Approach to boat bow, social contacts and groups moving with calves can be observed.

Note for divers: When you see a "bottlenose dolphin," do not immediately confirm species identification. Details such as body proportions, dorsal fin and ventral spotting in photographs should be evaluated later.

Note for photographers: Lateral profile and dorsal fin must be attempted to be captured. Notches and marks on the dorsal fin can be used for individual identification in photo-ID studies.

Scientific source: Mahdy, A., Ghallab, A., Madkour, H., & Osman, A. (2021). Status of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops aduncus, in the Northern Protected Islands, Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt. Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, 25(1), 681–697.

Bottlenose dolphin – Tursiops truncatus

Distribution and habitat: It is distributed in many temperate and tropical seas of the world and is one of the regularly seen cetaceans in the Red Sea. The species has been recorded in both coastal and more open waters in the region.

Interesting fact — The dorsal fin can be an individual's ID card: Natural notches, scars and marks that form on the fin edge over time are different from individual to individual. Researchers can use these patterns to re-identify the same dolphin years later.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? Observe individuals swimming parallel to the boat, using the bow wave or moving forward in small groups at the surface. In social groups, body contact, synchronized diving and jumping behavior can be observed.

Note for divers: If you can take a photograph of the dorsal fin, an encounter becomes more than just a tourist observation and can turn into a potential photo-ID record.

Note for photographers: Photograph the dorsal fin as perpendicular to the surface as possible and in full lateral profile. For individual identification purposes, this is sometimes much more valuable than an artistic jump photograph.

Scientific source: Notarbartolo di Sciara, G., et al. Cetaceans of the Red Sea. CMS Technical Series No. 33.

Risso's dolphin – Grampus griseus

Distribution and habitat: It is a widely distributed species that lives especially in deeper, open waters of tropical and temperate seas. It is considered among regularly recorded cetaceans in the Red Sea, but should not be expected to be encountered as frequently as coastal bottlenose or spinner dolphins.

Interesting fact — It can turn white with age: Young individuals are darker gray, while scratches and marks from social interactions with other dolphins accumulate on the body throughout life. Older Risso's dolphins may therefore appear almost white.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? On open ocean transfers, watch for large dolphins with a high dorsal fin and distinctly light coloring. There is no classic long dolphin beak on the head; the forehead is rounded.

Note for divers: Sightings on open ocean passages like BDE transfers are a more meaningful possibility compared to coastal diving areas; however, encounters should not be presented as a routine expectation.

Note for photographers: The scratches on the body and the high dorsal fin are important for species identification. Lateral profile is the most useful angle.

Scientific source: Notarbartolo di Sciara, G., et al. Cetaceans of the Red Sea. CMS Technical Series No. 33.

Pantropical spotted dolphin – Stenella attenuata

Distribution and habitat: Common in tropical oceans, it is a dolphin mostly associated with open ocean. It is among verified and regularly seen species in the Red Sea; it has also been recorded in the Egyptian Red Sea.

Interesting fact — Calves are born without spots: The species name comes from the spots on adults, but this pattern is absent in calves. Spotting appears as age advances and can become quite prominent in adult individuals.

Behavior — what should a diver look for? On open ocean transfers, watch for fast-moving, slender dolphin schools. Confusion with spinner dolphins is possible.

Note for divers: Do not make a diagnosis based solely on jumping behavior from a distance. Body pattern, beak, dorsal fin and photographs if possible should be evaluated together. In fact, some Red Sea records previously reported as spinner dolphins were later understood to be S. attenuata.

Note for photographers: In adult individuals, a close lateral profile showing body spots would be valuable. If you capture both calves and adults within the school in the same frame, the spotting pattern changing with age can be seen beautifully.

Scientific source: Perrin, W. F. (2009). Pantropical spotted dolphin: Stenella attenuata. In W. F. Perrin, B. Würsig, & J. G. M. Thewissen (Eds.), Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals (2nd ed.). Academic Press.

16. Practical approach for marine mammal observation on BDE routes

On the Brothers–Daedalus–Elphinstone route, it is more accurate to regard cetacean observation particularly as a bonus of long boat transits. Spinner dolphin and bottlenose dolphin species are supported by strong records in the Red Sea; pantropical spotted dolphin and Risso's dolphin are also verified members of the fauna but their encounter frequencies and distributions are not the same. For this reason, they can be described as "possibly sighted" on the Scuba-Bay page, but none should be presented as a route guarantee.

What divers should look for: During boat transfer, not only at jumping animals; but at herd size, presence of calves, swimming direction, whether they use bow waves and dorsal fin shape. If photos can be taken, full lateral dorsal fin images are particularly valuable whenever possible.

Especially for photo-ID: Notches, scars and edge shape on the dorsal fin can be used for individual identification in Tursiops species. Photo-identification has also been applied in spinner dolphin studies in the Egyptian Red Sea, enabling the cataloguing of hundreds of individuals using Samadai Reef. In one study, 255 individuals were distinguished by photographs and a population size of approximately 567–637 individuals was estimated for the population using the area.

Sea Creatures That Can Be Seen During Red Sea Diving

2. Rays and mantas

Oceanic manta – Mobula birostris

Reef manta – Mobula alfredi

Spotted eagle ray – Aetobatus ocellatus

Blue-spotted stingray – Taeniura lymma

Cowtail stingray / Cowtail stingray – Pastinachus sephen

Porcupine ray / Porcupine ray – Urogymnus asperrimus

Electric rays – Torpedinidae

3. Sea turtles

Green sea turtle – Chelonia mydas

Hawksbill sea turtle – Eretmochelys imbricata

4. Large pelagic fish and schooling fish

Giant trevally – Caranx ignobilis

Bluefin trevally – Caranx melampygus

Bigeye trevally – Caranx sexfasciatus

Greater amberjack – Seriola dumerili

Dogtooth tuna – Gymnosarda unicolor

Yellowfin tuna – Thunnus albacares

Wahoo – Acanthocybium solandri

Great barracuda – Sphyraena barracuda

Pickhandle barracuda – Sphyraena jello

Rainbow runner – Elagatis bipinnulata

Blue-lined fusilier – Pterocaesio tile

Yellowback fusilier – Caesio xanthonota

Lunar fusilier – Caesio lunaris

Yellowfin goatfish – Mulloidichthys vanicolensis

5. Wrasses and large reef fish

Napoleon wrasse – Cheilinus undulatus

Giant grouper – Epinephelus lanceolatus

Potato grouper – Epinephelus tukula

Greasy grouper – Epinephelus tauvina

Coral hind – Cephalopholis miniata

Peacock grouper – Cephalopholis argus

Lyretail grouper – Variola louti

Titan triggerfish – Balistoides viridescens

Yellowmargin triggerfish – Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus

Blue triggerfish – Pseudobalistes fuscus

Redtooth triggerfish – Odonus niger

6. Moray eels

Giant moray – Gymnothorax javanicus

Yellow-mouth moray – Gymnothorax nudivomer

Honeycomb moray – Gymnothorax favagineus

Undulated moray – Gymnothorax undulatus

Geometric moray – Gymnothorax griseus

Grey moray – Siderea grisea

7. Reef fish species endemic to and characterizing the Red Sea region

Red Sea clownfish – Amphiprion bicinctus

Masked butterflyfish – Chaetodon semilarvatus

Red Sea bannerfish – Heniochus intermedius

Red Sea dottyback – Pseudochromis fridmani

Red Sea mimic blenny – Ecsenius gravieri

Red Sea cleaner wrasse – Larabicus quadrilineatus

Eight-striped flasher wrasse – Paracheilinus octotaenia

Klunzinger wrasse – Thalassoma rueppellii

Red Sea anthias – Pseudanthias taeniatus

Arabian angelfish – Pomacanthus asfur

Yellow-banded angelfish – Pomacanthus maculosus

Sohal surgeonfish – Acanthurus sohal

Purple surgeonfish / Yellowtail tang – Zebrasoma xanthurum

8. Classic Red Sea reef fishes

Blacktail / Exquisite butterflyfish – Chaetodon austriacus

Regal angelfish – Pygoplites diacanthus

Emperor angelfish – Pomacanthus imperator

Picasso triggerfish – Rhinecanthus assasi

Bicolor parrotfish – Cetoscarus bicolor

Bullethead parrotfish – Chlorurus sordidus

Bluespine unicornfish – Naso unicornis

Rabbitfishes – Siganus spp.

Lionfish – Pterois miles

Crocodilefish – Papilloculiceps longiceps

Devil scorpionfish – Scorpaenopsis diabolus

Stonefish – Synanceia spp.

9. Cephalopods

Large reef squid – Sepioteuthis lessoniana

Daytime octopus / Reef octopus – Octopus cyanea

Cuttlefish – Sepia spp.

10. Nudibranchs and other macro organisms

Spanish dancer – Hexabranchus sanguineus species complex

Phyllidia nudibranchs – Phyllidia spp.