Trumpetfish

Long and slender, trumpetfish mimic their surroundings perfectly, quietly hunting while adding elegance to shallow coastal waters. They can change color to match corals, seagrass, or even shadow larger fish.

Habitat: Rocky reefs, seagrass beds

Best season: June - October

In Crete

Another Lessepsian migrant, the Atlantic trumpetfish has established populations along Crete's south and north coasts. They're regularly spotted at Almyrida's rocky reefs. Their arrival reflects the Mediterranean's ongoing transformation as waters warm.

Behaviour

Masters of stealth hunting, trumpetfish often position themselves vertically among sea fans or grasses, swaying with the current. They sometimes 'shadow' larger fish like groupers to get close to prey, then strike with lightning speed using their tubular snout.

Diving tips

Look for them hovering vertically near rocky walls or hiding among posidonia seagrass. Their camouflage is excellent, so scan slowly. They're not shy and can be approached closely for photography – just avoid sudden movements.