Coral Reef Florida Keys Fish Species

Exotic reef fish of the florida keys.

Coral reef florida keys fish species. Florida is the only state in the continental united states with extensive shallow coral reef formations near its coasts. Corals and coral reefs. The florida keys region supports a broad diversity of tropical and subtropical fish and shellfish species. The coral reefs off the florida keys are well known for their abundance of fish species lobsters turtles and other marine life.

Coast and the caribbean including florida keys national marine sanctuary. Reef fish of florida. The florida keys coral reef is visually dynamic in color and texture. Coral reefs lay the foundation of a dynamic ecosystem.

One of the park s greatest and most magnificent treasures lies below the water s surface florida s coral reef. Beautiful fish of the florida reef. Because the lionfish prey base includes many species of fish and invertebrates their impact on reef food webs. These inner patch reefs are referred to as the patches the patches are isolated coral heads rubble and rock piles located in depths of 10 30ft.

Among the most vibrant in the florida keys the park s corals are abundant representing about 30 species including elkhorn staghorn and pillar coral all of which are listed as threatened under the endangered species act. Photos by paul humann. It s also home to an amazing assortment of reef fish including game fish and tropical species. Clients have the opportunity to catch several different fish species on patch reef fishing trips including famous keys scallywags throwback inedible fish or undersize fish.

These reefs are intricately tied to our area s economy attracting tourists for diving snorkeling and other recreational opportunities and providing homes for many commercially important fish species. This includes ones important to fishing like spiny lobster snapper and grouper. First reported in south florida in the 1980s the indo pacific lionfishes pterois volitans and p. 6 in family chaetodontidae.

Accustomed to being dived with and quite willing to be used in a photo op the local fish life is sure to delight. Miles are now well established along the southeast u s. 21 photos and descriptions from reef relief founders deevon and craig quirolo. These animals depend on healthy coral reef seagrass mangrove and other habitats throughout their lives and are vulnerable to exploitation climate change habitat degradation and variable water quality.