The Red Sea is important for the movement of goods, especially oil, but it is also important for its rich and diverse marine life. The reefs, which are dotted along the shallow shelves that fringe the sea, are the most beautiful in the world and are a magnet for divers. The mangroves along the shores are breeding grounds for many commercially important species of fish and crustaceans and the deep waters are home to larger fish and marine mammals. Sea grass beds provide food for the Green Turtle and the Dugongs, while plankton is a major source of food for many species of fish and other creatures.

There are over 1300 species of fish, more than a thousand species of mollusks, 200 corals, more than 250 bristle worms and so on, all in this small area. Most of the most interesting, beautiful and accessible of the creatures that live in the Red Sea are to be found on the coral reefs.

5 of 17 Turkeyfish, Pterois volitans

This beautifully marked fish is one of the more dangerous fishes in the Red Sea. The feathery-looking spines are equipped with venom glands and can be directed towards an intruder; if provoked they can strike forward with the dorsal spines. Pain from the spine wounds is agonizing and deaths have occurred. The pain can be alleviated by immersing the injured limb in hot water.