Firstly a word about safety. Whether you are diving or snorkeling there is a strict ‘don’t touch’ rule. In most cases this is for the benefit of the sealife. Fishes have a slimy protective coating which can be easily rubbed off, exposing them to microbial attack very quickly. In a few cases the rule is to protect you. Fire coral, Lionfish and Stonefish all have venomous spines. Urchin needles can be very painful because they are not only poisonous, but also barbed, making them hard to remove.

Bigger fish such as conger eels and sharks have sharp teeth and can do real damage. The late Steve Irwin proved that even experts can come a cropper when mucking about with wildlife. Stingrays are beautiful and should be admired, but never touched.

So, having got the safety talk over with, here are my favourite reef fishes that you will see in the Maldives. Angelfish are just plain pretty. They are slow movers too, so great for photography.

Clown fish (“Nemo” from the film “Finding Nemo”) are always fun to watch, and if a Moorish Idol (“Gill” from the same film) happens to swim by, then so much the better.

Eagle rays are not to be played with, but are wonderful to watch as they ‘fly’ underwater and bury themselves in the sand. The endangered Hawksbill Turtle can often be seen in the Maldives and is a particular favourite. Watch as they graze across the coral without an apparent care in the world. Moray Eel, with their gaping mouths, hidden in holes come out at night, so wait around till late or get up early to watch these guys in action.

Of course the big gus such as White Tipped Reef Sharks and Mantas are stunning, but my absolute favourite animal of the reef is the Octopus. They are fascinating, with their boneless bodies, amazing tentacles and spooky ability to change colour and camouflage themselves perfectly.

Discover more about the fishes of the Maldive Islands

Author: Chris D Brown

Author Bio: Chris D Brown is a reputable writer. Chris likes to scribble articles about this industry.

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