Triplefins are one of the most diverse families of fish on Aotearoa New Zealand’s coastal reefs. But because they are small they are often overlooked. If you pause for a moment and look closely around the shallow reefs of Te Kohuroa Matheson Bay, you may notice many vibrant triplefins sitting on the bottom looking back at you.

Marine reserves have positive impacts on marine life in and outside of their boundaries. The kelp forests they protect are an essential buffer for climate change and provide up to 80% of the earth’s oxygen. But are we doing enough to protect our oceans?