UPY 2025

UPY  Macro - Highly Commended
'Ghost of the reef'
Simon Biddie

Adapted to camouflage amongst coral, gobies have transparent bodies, fins with suction for firm grip, and low set gills to hide any movement from predators. Meanwhile, their large, angled eyes keep a lookout. Small reef fish, like this ghostgoby are ubiquitous but unassuming, and often unseen. They are called ‘cryptobenthic’ fish for their ability to hide. Their land-based equivalent would be insects, evading predators by being experts in hiding. Their small size, and fast growth, like insects, mean cryptobenthic fish contribute up to 70% of the fish biomass. Of this class of fish, the Gobies are thought to be the most important, making them a critical part of reef food chains.

Judge's comment: Most underwater photographers will have taken a shot like this, but approached this quality of image defined by such beautiful details. The coral looks like an Ishihara colour blindness test chart, no wonder the ghost goby disappears like a phantom on this background.

Alex Mustard