The water was clear and the sky was cloudless, so illumination was good underwater. The ocean was warm: 71F, too warm for kelp. El Niño is having an effect.

This giant kelpfish was particularly friendly and patient as I photographed it off San Clemente Island.

Giant kelp (Macrocystis) can grow by splitting the frond on the top of a stalk, or "stipe", into many fronds.