Painted Comber

Photo: Luis P. B. · CC BY-NC

Painted combers are among the most charismatic small fish on Fuerteventura's wreck sites — boldly patterned with red, brown, and blue markings, they are simultaneously hermaphroditic (each individual possesses both male and female reproductive tissue) and highly territorial, occupying the same wreck crevice or ledge position for months at a time. They prey on small fish, crustaceans, and polychaete worms, lunging from ambush positions near the wreck structure rather than pursuing prey in open water. Their tolerance of divers at close range and their habit of perching motionless in photogenic positions make them a favourite subject of underwater photographers working the Caleta de Fustes wrecks.