Every Fish Tells a Story, some epic, some anecdotal. A few of those stories are recorded here, because the world’s reefs are in peril, and if we listen to a species other than our own, we may learn. Many reefs vanished in the last few years and will not be soon or easily replaced.The companion edition to this one, Some Fishes I Have Known, is based on the premise that fish are social, sentient beings who see, feel and know, with photos to prove the concept. The photos in this 2nd erudition on fish society also illustrate what any observer might see on opening her eyes, heart and mind. That is, the cold and scaly gill-breathers of outrageous coloration and unbridled innocence are often willing to engage us.

Many reef critters are as individual in character as some humans. If you’re lucky, they see you back as few others will, for who you might be.