Books About Sea LifeThe Guide des poissons de Nouvelle-Calédoniepublished by Au vent des îles

Last updated on 10/21/2026 at 11:51 PM

Explore the extraordinary diversity of New Caledonia's fishes with the Guide des poissons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, published by Au vent des îles. Drawing on the expertise of nature photographer Pierre Laboute and oceanographer René Grandperrin, this reference book presents more than 1 200 fish species from the archipelago's freshwater, brackish, and marine environments.

From coral reefs and rivers to offshore waters and the ocean depths, this illustrated guide explores an exceptionally rich array of aquatic life. Each species is accompanied by photographs and information that help readers understand its characteristics, lifestyle, and, where relevant, any health risks associated with eating it. Accessible to nature enthusiasts and knowledgeable readers alike, this book combines scientific rigor, field observations, and a sense of wonder at the biodiversity of the southwestern Pacific.

An exceptional overview of New Caledonia’s fishes

With more than 1 200 species covered, the Guide des poissons de Nouvelle-Calédonie offers a comprehensive overview of the archipelago’s fish fauna. Fish from coral reefs are presented alongside those from rivers, brackish waters, offshore areas, and the deep sea. Organized into 41 chapters, the book uses a rigorous taxonomic classification and photographs taken in New Caledonia. The text and captions provide information about each species, its anatomical features, and any potential toxicity.

Poison goby (Gobiodon citrinus), a small yellow fish with blue markings

The poison gobyGobiodon citrinusThis small yellow fish with blue markings lives among the branches of Acropora corals. Its small size and close association with corals illustrate the adaptations of reef fish.Read more

Coral hind (Cephalopholis miniata), an orange-red grouper covered with blue spots

The coral hindCephalopholis miniataThis grouper relative is recognized by its orange-red body covered with small, bright blue spots. It ambushes small fish and crustaceans near coral reefs.Read more

Eastern triangle butterflyfish (Chaetodon baronessa) on a coral reef

The eastern triangle butterflyfishChaetodon baronessaThis butterflyfish stands out for its contrasting patterns and flattened body. It inhabits reefs across the western Indo-Pacific, including New Caledonia, where it swims among the corals.Read more

Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus) swimming above a coral reef

The whitetip reef sharkTriaenodon obesusThis Indo-Pacific shark inhabits coral reefs and lagoons, including those of New Caledonia. Recognizable by the white tips on its first dorsal fin and tail, it hunts mainly at night.Read more

From reefs to the ocean depths

The book explores a wide range of aquatic environments, from coral ecosystems and freshwater habitats to the ocean’s deepest zones. It highlights the vertical migrations of certain deep-sea fish, which rise toward the upper layers of the water at night. The authors also examine the distinctive features of Pacific waters, which are influenced by climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña, as well as health risks associated with certain species, particularly ciguatera poisoning.

A natural heritage worth protecting

Beyond species identification, this book draws attention to the vulnerability of New Caledonia’s aquatic ecosystems. The worrying decline in freshwater fish populations highlights the pressures facing natural environments. At sea, the diversity of habitats and richness of the reefs underscore the importance of protecting this exceptional heritage. The guide helps raise awareness of conservation issues and the need to manage marine resources sustainably in a region where the Coral Sea Natural Park plays a major role.

Two experts passionate about the marine world

A renowned underwater photographer, Pierre Laboute has spent thousands of hours diving in different oceans, both day and night. His photography has been closely linked to scientific research, particularly during his career at the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), and has led to numerous publications on marine environments.

The Guide des poissons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, published by Au vent des îles, is available at bookstores

The Guide des poissons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, by nature photographer Pierre Laboute and oceanographer René Grandperrin

René Grandperrin, a biological oceanographer and former diving instructor, was a recognized expert on the marine ecosystems of the southwestern Pacific. His research focused in particular on New Caledonia’s reef, lagoon, and deep-sea resources. The author of numerous scientific publications, he also helped make knowledge about the marine environment accessible to a wider audience.

A guide for enthusiasts and curious readers

Divers, underwater photographers, anglers, naturalists, students, and biodiversity enthusiasts will find a wealth of information about New Caledonia’s fishes in this book. Its rich illustrations and wide range of topics help readers deepen their knowledge of species and their habitats while discovering the ecological challenges facing this remarkable marine region.

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