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.

6 of 17 Scalefin Anthias, Anthias squamipinnis

Can be seen in large colorful swarms on the Red Sea reefs. The males of this small species (up to 15cm) maintain large harems and if the male is removed can result in a sex change in a dominant female who then takes on the role of the male. The male is fuchsia color while the female is predominantly orange red.