Got a photo? Identify fish instantly with the Fishby app.
Open the appDescription
The Axillary Wrasse (Symphodus mediterraneus) is a small, colorful marine fish belonging to the family Labridae. It is characterized by its elongated, somewhat compressed body and distinctive coloration, which can vary significantly with age, sex, and geographical location. This species is known for its complex reproductive behaviors, including nest building by males.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- compressed
- Coloration
- Highly variable. Males are generally more colorful, especially during breeding season, displaying shades of red, orange, brown, and green, often with iridescent blue or green spots and lines. A prominent dark spot is typically present on the upper part of the caudal peduncle (base of the tail) and another, often less distinct, in the axil (base) of the pectoral fin. Females and juveniles are usually duller, often brownish or greenish with mottled patterns for camouflage. The head may have irregular blue lines.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Prominent dark spot on the upper caudal peduncle., Often a dark spot in the axil of the pectoral fin (hence 'Axillary Wrasse')., Elongated snout with thick lips., Small, conical teeth., Variable but often vibrant coloration, especially in males.
- Dorsal fin
- Single, long dorsal fin with 14-17 spines and 9-11 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.
- Tail fin
- Rounded or slightly truncate caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Large and fan-like, typically with 13-15 rays.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are thoracic, located directly below the pectoral fins.
Identification Tips
Caudal Peduncle Spot
Look for a distinct dark spot on the upper part of the caudal peduncle (the narrow part of the body connecting to the tail fin). This is a key identifying feature.
Pectoral Axil Spot
Observe the base of the pectoral fin; a dark spot in the 'armpit' (axil) is often present, though it can be less conspicuous than the caudal spot.
Body Shape and Size
Its relatively elongated and compressed body, reaching up to 18 cm, helps distinguish it from some other wrasse species.
Coloration and Pattern
While variable, the general reddish-brown to greenish base color with potential blue lines on the head and iridescent spots can be indicative. Males in breeding season are particularly vibrant.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found from 1 to 50 meters (3 to 164 feet), occasionally deeper.
- Environment
- Prefers rocky bottoms, seagrass beds (Posidonia oceanica meadows), and areas with mixed sand and rock. Often found in coastal waters, near reefs, and in sheltered bays. Juveniles may inhabit shallower, more protected areas.
- Geographic range
- Eastern Atlantic Ocean, from Portugal to Morocco, including the Azores, Madeira, and Canary Islands. Also widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 50 gallons (190 liters)
- Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
- pH level: 8.1-8.4
- Hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibility: Can be kept with other robust, non-aggressive marine fish. Avoid keeping with very small or shy species, or other wrasses of similar size unless the tank is very large and offers ample hiding spots.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-established marine aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A sand bed is beneficial for potential burrowing behavior, though less common than in some other wrasse species. Good water quality and stable parameters are crucial.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeding typically occurs in spring and early summer (April to July), during which males exhibit more vibrant coloration and territorial behavior.
- Market price: Low
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Mild, slightly sweet
- Texture: Flaky, delicate
- Cooking methods: Pan-fried, Baked, Grilled
- Nutritional value: Good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Key Facts
Nest Builderbehavior
Male Axillary Wrasses are diligent nest builders, constructing elaborate nests from algae and seagrass fragments to attract females for spawning. They then guard the eggs until hatching.
Protogynous Hermaphroditebehavior
Like many wrasses, Symphodus mediterraneus is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals are born female and can later change sex to male. This is a common reproductive strategy in the Labridae family.
Cleaner Fish Behaviorbehavior
Juvenile Axillary Wrasses have been observed engaging in cleaner fish behavior, removing parasites from larger fish, although this is not their primary feeding strategy.
Color Variationinteresting
The striking color variability of the Axillary Wrasse, influenced by sex, age, and environment, makes it a fascinating subject for underwater observation and photography.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: edible
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard care for live fish. They are not venomous and do not possess dangerous spines. Handle gently to avoid stress or injury to the fish.
Similar Species
Five-spotted Wrasse
Symphodus roissali
S. roissali typically has five distinct dark spots along its lateral line, whereas S. mediterraneus has only the caudal peduncle and sometimes pectoral axil spots. S. roissali also tends to be smaller and has a more greenish-brown overall coloration.
Ocellated Wrasse
Symphodus ocellatus
S. ocellatus is generally smaller and possesses a prominent ocellated (eye-like) spot on the posterior part of its dorsal fin, which is absent in S. mediterraneus. Its coloration is also typically more mottled and less uniformly colored.
Goldsinny Wrasse
Ctenolabrus rupestris
The Goldsinny Wrasse has a more robust body and a distinct black spot at the anterior base of the dorsal fin, in addition to a caudal peduncle spot. Its mouth is also smaller and more upturned.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Labridae
- Genus
- Symphodus
- Species
- Symphodus mediterraneus
Explore Axillary Wrasse
Identify fish anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full species details, and more.