Battle of the big fish

Jordi Chias Pujol's Image

The altercation between the dusky groupers started out mildly enough, but soon escalated into a violent attack. The rivals were so absorbed with battling each other they ignored Jordi. He was able to approach, manoeuvre into position and frame his shot – capturing the drama against the reef and the shoal of peaceful ornate wrasse.

All dusky groupers develop initially as females with some then turning into males as they grow larger and older. These complex reproductive habits and its slow growth rate mean this endangered species is particularly at risk. In recent decades commercial and spearfishing has caused dramatic declines.


Behind the lens

Jordi Chias Pujol

Jordi Chias Pujol

Spain

Jordi is a freelance photographer based in Barcelona. He specialises in photographing the underwater world, capturing both wildlife and human activity. His work has been published in magazines and books, and has been used by conservation organisations. His photography has also garnered awards in many competitions.

Image details

  • Canon EOS 5D Mark III
  • 17-40mm f4 lens at 17mm
  • 1/125 sec at f11  •   ISO 320  •   Isotta housing
  • The Azores, mid-Atlantic
Copyright in WPY competition photographs remains the property of the respective photographers. You may not copy, share, reproduce or republish the photographs except as expressly permitted by copyright law. For media image usage enquiries, please contact us.

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The shy crocodile
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