Rubberlips sometimes school in groups of up to fifty fish. Blacksmith fish inhabit shallow reefs and rocky areas, they swim in open water and can be found in Southern and Central California, and South to Central Baja. Blacksmith fish can be found as deep as 150 feet. The Garibaldi is the California state marine fish and probably one of the most recognizable fish in San Diego. They are found in kelp communities and can reach a length of 15 inches.
Juveniles have a reddish-brown body with bright blue iridescent spots and strips.
The blue coloration disappears in the adult stage and both adult males and females are a brilliant orange color. Adult garibaldi are also highly territorial and will defend their area by making clacking noises and charging intruders. Sheepshead inhabit most rocky reefs and kelp forests. Canine teeth protrude from mouth in the terminal phase of both female and male sheepshead. Born females then become males later in life.