19 tropical fish you can meet in Miyako Island! List of shallow water, activities, and secluded beaches for small children to enjoy!
Table of Contents
- 1 Highlights of the 19 tropical fish you can encounter on Miyako Island
- 2 Activities to see tropical fish
- 3 Holey beaches and spots where you can see tropical fish
- 4 19 tropical fish illustrated in Miyako Island♪
- 4.1 clownfish (Balistoides conspicillum)
- 4.2 yellowtail amberjack (species of fish, Seriola lalandi)
- 4.3 whitetip reef clownfish (Amphiprion ocellatus)
- 4.4 sapphire devil (Chrysiptera cyanea, damselfish from the Indo-West Pacific)
- 4.5 blue-green chromis
- 4.6 whitetail dascyllus (Dascyllus aruanus, species of damselfish from the Indo- West Pacific)
- 4.7 scissortail sergeant (Abudefduf sexfasciatus)
- 4.8 Indo-Pacific sergeant-major fish (Abudefduf vaigiensis)
- 4.9 moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus, species of Indo-Pacific perciform fish)
- 4.10 reef bannerfish
- 4.11 Oriental butterflyfish (Chaetodon auripes, species found mo
- 4.12 clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum)
- 4.13 bird wrasse (Gomphosus varius)
- 4.14 Japanese parrotfish (Calotomus japonicus)
- 4.15 bluestripe seaperch
- 4.16 yellowfin goatfish (Mulloidichthys vanciolensis)
- 4.17 Gurukun (scorpionfish)
- 4.18 rock frog (Rana rugosa)
- 4.19 trumpetfish (Aulostomus chinensis)
- 5 For beginners and children! Tropical fish found in the shallows of Miyako Island
- 6 Dangerous tropical fish to watch out for on Miyako Island
- 7 Miyako Island Tropical Fish Q&A
- 8 summary
Highlights of the 19 tropical fish you can encounter on Miyako Island
Miyako Island is famous for its shallow coral reefs and "Miyako blue" transparency,A paradise in the sea where anyone can meet tropical fishÂ
The shallow waters with dancing clownfish, snappers, and butterfly fish are ideal for children and beginners to snorkel, and the coral formations in the Yaegase area are breathtaking!
In this article, we will introduce in an easy-to-understand manner the 19 tropical fish illustrations you can encounter on Miyako Island, recommended shallow-water beaches that are safe for children, and even activities where you can see tropical fish.
◆Those who want to observe clownfish up close on a trip to Miyako Island
Those who want to experience snorkeling while enjoying watching tropical fish.
Those who want to know in advance what kind of tropical fish they can find on the beaches of Miyako Island.
◆Those who want to know about shallow water spots where even small children can be safely observed.
Activities to see tropical fish
There are many variations of ways to see tropical fish on Miyako Island!
Keep in mind the features of the following classic activities to meet cute fishes efficiently.
snorkeling
The easiest way to meet tropical fishThis is a royal activity!
The shallow coral reefs offer the opportunity to observe schools of snappers, butterfly fish, and clownfish at close range.
Children and beginners should choose a place in the bay where the waves are calm or where they can enter directly from the beach, and prepare life jackets, marine shoes, and anti-fog equipment.
↓Click here for snorkeling tours where you can see tropical fish.
Click here for a ranking of the most popular snorkeling tours.
Experience Diving
It is recommended to join a tour accompanied by an instructor in a calm area with a depth of around 5 to 10 meters.
Enjoy underwater scenery unreachable by snorkelingYou can enjoy the graceful swimming of hornbills and grouper and the foraging scene of snappers at close range.
If you learn the basics, such as ear-pulling and hand-signing, you can participate without problems!
↓Click here for a diving tour where you can see tropical fish.
SUP/Kayak
In calm bays, you can walk on the water by SUP (stand-up paddle) or sea kayak!
Observe colorful fish shadows even from the boardYou can also do petit snorkeling with a mask in the shallows where you can go ashore.
For those who are not good swimmers or with children, this is a great way to combine the fun of SUP/kayaking with tropical fish watching.
↓Click here for SUP and kayak tours to see tropical fish.
Click here to see the popular ranking of Snorkel x SUP/Kayak tours.
glass boat
Glass boats are,Observe tropical fish without getting wet.Activity.
The waters of Irabu Island are crystal clear, and you can clearly see the underwater world at depths of 20 to 30 meters!
The clear Miyako blue and schools of butterfly fish and bigeye snappers, and in some cases, sea turtles can be seen.
↓Click here for glass boat tours where you can see tropical fish.
↓Click here to read the article.
Holey beaches and spots where you can see tropical fish
Miyako Island and the surrounding islands (Irabu and Kurima) each have beaches where you can see tropical fish!
Entry rules may change from beach to beach, so be sure to check local information and postings carefully before visiting.
Yabiji (Yaebiji)
One of the largest coral reef groups in Japan, it is a major spot that stretches to the north of Miyako Island!
More than 100 reefs of various sizes are scattered throughout the area, and the clear waters are lush with branch, table, and coral, and the variety and number of tropical fish are overwhelming.
It is commonly accessed by boat or snorkeling,Clownfish, school of bigeye damselfish, butterfly fish, groupers, and wrasse.and others can be observed with high probability.
Access: 40 minutes by boat from Hirara Port, 20 minutes by boat from Ikema Island
◆Parking: O
◆Toilet and shower: O
◆Shop: O
◆Rental items: O
*There are no parking lots, restrooms, stores, etc. at the Yaebise itself. Necessary facilities may be available at the departure port, at each store, or on the tour boats.
↓Click here for more information.
↓Click here for popular tours in Yaebise
Click here to see the popularity ranking of Yaebise tours.
Yoshino Coast
This is a typical snorkeling spot located on the east coast of Miyako Island.
Coral colonies spread out immediately after entry,Schools of bigeye damselfish, butterfly fish, boxer fish, and dusky fish.is a high probability ♪
Because the proximity to the open ocean can cause swells on some days, beginners should choose days with low waves!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
↓Click here for more information.
Shinshiro Coast(Aragusuku kaigan)
The shallow waters and often calm waves make it popular with children and first-timers.â
Eelgrass beds and reefs are scattered throughout the area,clownfish, bluefin chromis, false yellowtail chromis, yellowtail snappers, and bluefin snappersAnd a herd of
Be careful not to kick the coral with your fin kicks because it becomes shallow at low tide.
◆Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
↓Click here for more information.
Shigira Beach
The beach in front of the resort is well maintained and easy to enter directly from the sandy beach.
Clownfishes, hornbills, groupers, butterfly fish, and various types of butterflyfishIn addition to,Sea turtles migrateThey are also known for their abundance (encountering them is a matter of luck, as they are wild creatures).
Follow local rules, such as no contact with coral while on the ropes!
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
↓Click here for more information.
Im Gyor Marine Garden
This cove-shaped natural pool is less affected by wind and is ideal for practicing SUP and snorkeling.
In the crevices of the rocks.A school of rock frogfish, and a school of bigeye damselfish at the branch coral in the shallow area.is the highlight♪
It is safer to play around the inner part of the bay, as the currents can be fast on the outside!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
↓Click here for more information.
Nakanoshima Beach (Irabu Island)
You will enter the area from the Gorota rocky area, and the underwater area is a beautiful contrast of coral and topography!
yellowtail wrasse (Thalassoma lucasanum), barred wrasse (Thalassoma lucasanum), snappers, butterfly fishThe variety of the area is appealing. Marine shoes are a must as the footing is unstable.
Don't take it easy on days when there are waves, but choose a day with good visibility to get a good picture... ♪
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: O
◆Rental items: Fat
↓Click here for more information.
↓Click here to read the article.
19 tropical fish illustrated in Miyako Island♪
High encounter rate on Miyako Island, easy to identify even for beginners.Representative species are carefully selected.
We'll show you how to find them and their habitat, so please think you're diving under the sea and enjoy the ride!
clownfish (Balistoides conspicillum)
Symbiosis with sea anemones (e.g., Chaetodon senjou)The "M" is a popular person to do.
They often settle in the shade of rocks in the shallows of Shinshiro Beach and Shigira, and it is fascinating to see the same individuals again and again... ♪
Do not touch them, but keep your distance and observe them.
◆Main characteristics: Symbiosis with anemones / Sex change from male to female within a group / Omnivore (plankton, algae)
◆Body length: 6-11 cm
◆Body color: orange with white band (black rim)
◆Primary habitats: coral reef shallows, reef ponds (around anemones)
yellowtail amberjack (species of fish, Seriola lalandi)
It is marked by its red-orange body color and thick white band!
Slightly strong-willed,They come forward when approaching the nest.A species that is easy to photograph because of its nature.
It can be observed in the shallow sea anemones.
◆Main Characteristics: Strong temperament / Adults have a single white band (juveniles have multiple white bands) / Male to female sex change
◆Body length: 10-14 cm
◆Body color: red to orange with a white band
◆Primary habitat: around anemones in shallow reef ponds and inner bays
whitetip reef clownfish (Amphiprion ocellatus)
The pale salmon pink body color and the white line on the top of the head are dainty.
Abundant in anemones in bays with weak currents,Easy to find even for beginnersIt is!
◆Main characteristics: white line on top of head to dorsum / abundant in calm places / male to female sex change
◆Body length: 7-11 cm
◆ Body color: Salmon pink with white line
Main Habitat: Calm coral reef lagoons
sapphire devil (Chrysiptera cyanea, damselfish from the Indo-West Pacific)
Small sparrowhawk in lapis lazuli color.
Formed small schools on shallow branching corals,Sparkling in the lightYes!
Aim for the border between sand and coral in Aragusuku and Shigira.
◆Main Characteristics: Small and territorial / coloration may vary between males and females / omnivorous
◆Body length: 5-8 cm
◆Body color: bright lapis lazuli blue
Main habitat: Shallow areas of coral reefs (branching coral zones)
blue-green chromis
The iconic fish of Miyako Island, dancing above the coral in large schools of mint green to light blue.
When alarmed, they all hide together in a coral crevice.The trick is to approach quietly because
◆Main Characteristics: Swimming on branching corals in large schools / Mainly planktonic feeder
◆Body length: 8-10 cm
◆ Body color: light blue to mint green
Main habitat: Lagoon with well-developed branching corals
whitetail dascyllus (Dascyllus aruanus, species of damselfish from the Indo- West Pacific)
Three black belts on a white background.
They cluster around branching corals and are very photogenic.Yoshino Coast and Shinshiro Coastâ
◆Main Characteristics: white with three black stripes / gregarious / planktonic feeder
◆Body length: 7-10 cm
◆Body color: white with black vertical band
Main habitat: Shallow waters of coral reefs (branching coral zone)
scissortail sergeant (Abudefduf sexfasciatus)
6 black beltsThe characteristic feature of this species is its large, reddish brown coloration. This is a standard species that is easy to observe in shoals and reef ponds along the surf.
Even if they are accustomed to people, feeding them is not allowed!
◆Main Characteristics: 6 black bands / easy to school / omnivorous (algae, crustaceans, plankton)
◆Body length: 12-20 cm
◆Body color: white to yellow with black vertical bands
Main Habitat: Shallow water and reef ponds with good tidal flow
Indo-Pacific sergeant-major fish (Abudefduf vaigiensis)
These are rather large spiny lobsters that school in shallow water with good tidal flow!
It differs from the Rokusen's Sparrowhawk by the number of transverse bands on the body and the pattern on the caudal fins,The striped pattern is dignified.is a feature of this product.
◆Main characteristics: tall and gregarious / easily acclimated to humans but not feeding
◆Body length: 12-18 cm
Body color: grayish white to light blue with black vertical bands
Main habitat: Waves to shallow reefs and reef zones
moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus, species of Indo-Pacific perciform fish)
A popular fish with beautiful contrasts of white, black, and yellow.
Swimming in pairs on the reef areaThe encounter rate increases near the reef edge.
It is relatively easy to find even for experience divers.
◆Main characteristics: black-white-yellow contrast / long dorsal fin filiform processes / adults have a small projection on the forehead
◆Body length: 18-22 cm
◆Body color: white, black, yellow
Main habitat：Outer edges of coral reefs and rocky reefs
reef bannerfish
Dorsal fins grow long like a flagElegant species.
They migrate in schools and are more likely to be encountered at points closer to the open sea!
◆Main Characteristics: black-and-white band + long dorsal fins / may swim in groups / planktonic feeder
◆Body length: 18-25 cm
◆Body color: white and black (with yellow areas on fins)
Main habitat: Reef slope, reef edge near open sea
Oriental butterflyfish (Chaetodon auripes, species found mo
Round body with long rostrum and flowing finsfeatures.
The eye lines on the furai, the black spots behind the dorsal fins on the spines of the spiny dogfish, and the three lines on the thresher fish are distinguishing characteristics of the three species. They are "regulars" in coral colonies.
◆Main characteristics: long proboscis / coral-eating to omnivorous in many cases / act in pairs and small groups
◆Body length: 12-23 cm
◆Body color: Combination of yellow, white, and black (patterns vary by species)
Main habitat: All coral reefs (lagoon to outer edge)
clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum)
The white polka dots and geometric patterns of this hagfish species are eye-catching.
Pecking around in the hollows of the reef to look for food.Do not get too close. Do not get too close, but observe from diagonally behind!
◆Main characteristics: white polka dots and geometric patterns / strong teeth and dorsal fin lock spines / carnivorous (shellfish, sea urchins, crustaceans)
◆Body length: 30-50 cm
◆Body color: black with white spots and yellow mouth
Main habitat: Reefs and reef slopes near the open sea
bird wrasse (Gomphosus varius)
The long and slender body swims in wiggles.
Sex change and body color change are observed, and they are active around rocky areas and corals.Morning and evening foraging hoursis a photo opportunity.
◆Major characteristics: long, slender rostrum / body color changes from female to male (female pre-maturity) / preys on small invertebrates
◆Body length: 20-30 cm
◆Body color: greenish-blue in ♂, brownish in ♀ (varies with species and stage)
◆Primary habitat: Shallow areas of reefs and coral reefs
Japanese parrotfish (Calotomus japonicus)
Beak-shaped teeth scrape coralline algae."Marine lawnmower".
Many larger individuals have a beautiful blue-green body color. An important species involved in the production of coral sand that falls in sandy areas!
◆Main characteristics: beak-shaped teeth to scrape algae / Involved in sand production / Female to male sex change
◆Body length: 20-60 cm
Body color: green to blue and other vivid colors (varied depending on species)
Main Habitat：Around coral reefs and seagrass beds
bluestripe seaperch
Yellow body with four blue lines running through it.A gorgeous snapper.
They work in groups and cruise over the reefs. They look good on a clear day.
◆Main Characteristics: Yellow body with four blue lines / gregarious / carnivorous (small fish and crustaceans)
◆Body length: 20-35 cm
◆Body color: yellow with 4 blue vertical lines
Main habitats: on reefs, around roots, drop-off shelves
yellowfin goatfish (Mulloidichthys vanciolensis)
Characterized by a mustache around the mouth (moustache)The cyprinid fish of the
Swarms in the sand, hovering in search of small benthic animals. Easy to find during slack tide!
◆Main Characteristics: Searching sandy bottom with mouth whiskers / Swarming / Carnivores (small benthic animals)
◆Body length: 20-30 cm
◆Body color: yellow to pale red (yellow lateral line and fins are prominent)
◆Primary habitat: rocky reefs and shallow waters interspersed with sandy areas
Gurukun (scorpionfish)
Famous as Okinawa's prefectural fish!
They move in the middle of the water in schools,Reflects glittering lightBoat snorkeling and diving. Boat snorkeling and experience diving increase the encounter rate.
◆Primary Characteristics: Okinawa fish / migrates in large schools in the middle of the ocean / planktonic feeder
◆Body length: 20-30 cm
◆Body color: blue to silver with a yellow band (shiny on the body)
◆Primary Habitat: Coral reef mesocosms (below the water surface to slightly deeper)
rock frog (Rana rugosa)
Just stick your face out of the hole in the rock and observe your surroundings."Expressive"Small fish.
Home to tide pools and shallow rocky areas. Popular with macro photographers♪
◆Main Characteristics: emerges from rock holes / grabs algae on reefs (mainly herbivorous)
◆Body length: 8-12 cm
◆Body color: brown with fine mottling
Main Habitat: Tidal pools, very shallow areas of reefs
trumpetfish (Aulostomus chinensis)
A hunter slowly approaches his prey with his long, slender body.
There is a body color change,Assimilate with coral shadowsI am happy to find it in the
◆ Main characteristics: extremely elongated body and long mouth / ambush predator
◆Body length: 60-150 cm
Body color: green to blue-gray (also red type)
◆Primary habitats: outer reef edge, reef areas, lagoon edge
For beginners and with children!
Tropical fish found in the shallows of Miyako Island
Safe for children and beginners.Depth of Footingâ- A combination of classic species that can be observed in the "â-" and beaches where it is easy to see them â-.
The basic rule of thumb is "no touch," i.e., do not touch the coral or other living organisms.
clownfish (Balistoides conspicillum)
Both Aragusuku Beach and Shigira BeachShallow anemoneThe fish are often settled in the water and can be observed even before and after low tide.
Sand tends to be flung around on days when waves rise, so aim for times when there is little swell to get a clear view.
sapphire devil (Chrysiptera cyanea, damselfish from the Indo-West Pacific)
Because they form small groups on branching corals, they can be found in shallow water as dots of color!
Shinshiro Coast, Shigira Beach and Funakusu Beach covesThe best time to see the fish is on a calm day. If you get too close, the coral will hide them, so approach slowly.
◆Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
scissortail sergeant (Abudefduf sexfasciatus)
They flock together even at the edge of the surf.The tougher the species, the better.
The attraction is that even children making their debut as fish can observe them right after entry, making it easy for them to "feel the presence of many fish.
Refrain from feeding them as it is detrimental to the ecosystem.
Dangerous tropical fish to watch out for on Miyako Island
Miyako Island is relatively safe to enjoy, but some fish have poisonous or sharp spines.
If you find it, don't touch it.Keep your distance and use marine shoes and rash guards to protect yourself!
red lionfish (Pterois volitans)
The long pectoral fins spread out like a dance, though,Poisonous spines on dorsal fins, etc.Yes!
Do not touch them unnecessarily as they are often hovering behind rocks. Keep your distance for photos!
◆Major Characteristics: long, graceful pectoral fins / poisonous spines on dorsal, anal and ventral fins / carnivorous
◆Body length: 20-38 cm
◆Body color: reddish brown with white stripes
◆Primary habitat: Coral reefs and rocky reefs in rocky shadows
Sphaerotrichia (family of spiny dogfishes)
Poisonous spines on dorsal fins, etc.They are often found feeding on algae in rocky areas. They often feed on algae in rocky areas and quickly flee when startled!
If stung, wash the affected area immediately, and if possible, warm the area with warm water (40-45°C), which may relieve the pain. In severe cases, seek medical attention.
◆Major Characteristics: poisonous spines on dorsal and anal fins / herbivorous (algae) / flee quickly when startled
◆Body length: 20-30 cm
◆Body color: Yellow body with small brown spots (pattern on face)
◆Primary habitat: Shallow reefs and coral reefs
blue tang
There is a sharp "tail razor" projection (caudate ossicular plate) that, if touched forcibly, can causeFear of cutsThere are
Observe at a distance. Although not poisonous, avoid contact.
◆Major Characteristics: Razor-like spines on caudal peduncle / omnivorous (zooplankton, algae)
◆Body length: 20-30 cm
◆Body color: Blue body with black pattern and yellow tail
Main habitat: Coral reefs (lagoon to outer edge)
striped puffer (Takifugu porphyreus)
The teeth are strong, and if you unintentionally bring your fingers too close to them.Bite DangerThere are
In addition, many species areToxic as foodThe rule of thumb is not to touch or chase them if you see them in the water. If you see them in the water, do not touch or chase them.
◆Primary Characteristics: Strongly poisonous (TTX)
◆Body length: ~approx. 45-50 cm
◆Body color: gray to brown with numerous white spots and wavy spots on the abdomen
◆Primary habitats: coral reefs, lagoon, sandy areas, and estuaries
Miyako Island Tropical Fish Q&A
summary
Miyako Island is one of the best snorkeling destinations in Japan, where you can enjoy "Miyako blue and colorful tropical fish" even from shallow waters!
At representative spots such as Yoshino, Shinshiro, Shigira, Imugia, and Nakanoshima, you will have a high probability of encountering the main characters of the 19 illustrated books, such as bears, schools of sparrows, butterfly fish, snappers, and snappers.
How to enjoy it safely?(1) Preliminary check of wind direction and tide level, ,(2) Basic equipment such as life jackets and marine shoes, ,(3) "No touch" without touching corals or organismsThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
If these three things are observed, children and adults will be equally impressed.
↓Click here to read the article.
