ENTRY DESCRIPTION
While looking for marine megafauna in the Sea of Cortez, our group spotted what appeared to be a large bait ball of fish. Upon closer inspection, the ball of fish was determined to be balloonfish. Balloonfish have a defensive mechanism where they can fill up with water or air into a spherical shape with protruding spines. Adults are usually solitary, but I later learned that juveniles may form aggregations. Their collective round formation reminds me of a single balloonfish in their defensive state. I really love how these little fish came together to form such a beautiful, artistic sight with their reflection at the surface of the water and the sun’s rays surrounding them. Photo taken near La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico, 2023.

AUTHOR
I have been interested in photography for many years. After retiring early 4 years ago from a career in public health, I decided to pursue my passion for wildlife photography more seriously. I am learning and practicing all I can to effectively capture our planet's beautiful but rapidly declining wildlife species to share with others. I am passionate about wildlife both above and below water. Our world is filled with fascinating and beautiful wildlife that are crucial to the natural balance of this planet. I am striving to become more involved and influential in wildlife conservation through my photography.

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