Coral reefs and their associated fish communities are among the most biodiverse and productive ecosystems on Earth, but they are under threat from multiple stressors, many of which are driven by human activities. To better understand the threats facing coral reef fishes, 875 studies conducted between 1979 and 2020 were reviewed, examining their physiological responses to various abiotic and biotic stressors. The book chapter highlights the need for continued research and technological advances to better understand and mitigate the impacts of stressors on coral reef ecosystems, in order to protect their biodiversity and ecological function in the face of ongoing global change.