Stoplight Parrotfish in Saint Thomas

Saint Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands was hit hard by hurricane Irma in late 2017.  Much of the island is still without power, and blue tarps still act as roofs on many homes.  But the island is nevertheless open for business, with main roads, shops and beaches welcoming shiploads of tourists for visits.

Coki Bay's beach on the northeast side of the island is a good example of the island's fast recovery, where the beach side concessions are serving drinks and renting chairs to anyone that wants to enjoy the sand and surf.  And the dive shops are renting snorkeling masks and fins so visitors can witness the beauty and resilience of the nearby reefs up close.

A number of shots of a large stoplight parrotfish that was especially active and colorful during a recent visit to Coki Bay's reefs follow.

Stoplight Parrotfish off Coki Beach.

The bright orange colors in its tail give the stoplight parrotfish its name.

Stoplight parrotfish off Coki Beach, Saint Thomas.

Juvenile stoplight parrotfish displays quite different coloration from an adult.

Another juvenile stoplight parrotfish and its different coloration.

Stoplight parrotfish, Coki Beach, Saint Thomas.

Stoplight parrotfish, Coki Beach, Saint Thomas.

Stoplight parrotfish, Coki Beach, Saint Thomas.