Using his marine experience of nearly four decades, the author has provided accurate descriptions of selected reef fishes, with precise illustrations by Shantha Jayaweera. This book long fills a gap, as country-specific field guides for Sri Lanka have not been readily available for marine enthusiasts to learn about reef fishes in its waters. This publication will be immensely useful for those interested in learning about reef fishes and may also help officials in the identification of the species of reef fishes protected by law. This is the first in a series of field guides describing 158 species of reef fishes in Sri Lankan coastal waters.