The Ocellated wrasse (Symphodus ocellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The ocellated wrasse is a small wrasse from the Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea and the eastern Atlantic. The species grows to about 18 cm; breeding males are handsomely coloured with blue and orange tones and an ocellated spot behind the eye. It lives on vegetated rocky bottoms and seagrass beds to about 30 metres and eats small invertebrates such as bryozoans, worms, shrimp and molluscs. The male builds a dish-shaped nest of weeds and guards the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ocellated wrasse?
The Ocellated wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Ocellated wrasse live?
The Ocellated wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Ocellated wrasse get?
The Ocellated wrasse grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Ocellated wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Ocellated wrasse is harmless to humans.
Is the Ocellated wrasse edible?
The Ocellated wrasse is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Symphodus
More from the family Labridae
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