Fin's Fish Guide
The Axillary wrasse (Symphodus mediterraneus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, on rocky and seagrass bottoms in shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The axillary wrasse is a colourful wrasse of the family Labridae reaching about 18 cm. The elongate body is red-brown with fine longitudinal lines and bears a dark spot at the pectoral-fin base and a second on the tail base; breeding males show fine blue and orange tints. The species lives on rocky and seagrass bottoms of the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic, from shallow to moderate depths. It hunts small crustaceans, snails and shellfish. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite, with females able to change into males. The male builds a nest of weeds and guards the eggs. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Axillary wrasse?
The Axillary wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Colourful wrasse with a dark blotch at the pectoral fin base and a second on the caudal peduncle; males show blue and orange tints.
Where does the Axillary wrasse live?
The Axillary wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, on rocky and seagrass bottoms in shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Axillary wrasse get?
The Axillary wrasse grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Axillary wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Axillary wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Axillary wrasse edible?
The Axillary wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Axillary wrasse and live in the same waters.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Axillary wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Axillary wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.