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The Five-spotted Wrasse (Symphodus roissali) is a small, colorful wrasse species belonging to the family Labridae. It is characterized by its distinctive coloration and the presence of five dark spots along its flanks, which can vary in prominence. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males often displaying more vibrant colors, especially during breeding season. It is a common inhabitant of rocky and seagrass habitats in the Mediterranean Sea and adjacent Atlantic waters.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- compressed
- Coloration
- Highly variable. Males typically exhibit a greenish-brown to reddish-brown body with irregular darker blotches and often a bluish sheen on the head and fins. Females are generally duller, often brownish or greenish. Both sexes possess five distinct dark spots (ocelli) along the lateral line, though their intensity can vary. The caudal fin often has a reddish margin.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Five dark spots (ocelli) along the lateral line, sometimes less prominent in females or juveniles., Pointed snout and relatively small mouth., Sexual dimorphism in coloration, with males being more vibrant., A small black spot at the base of the pectoral fin.
- Dorsal fin
- Single, long dorsal fin with 14-16 spines and 9-11 soft rays.
- Tail fin
- Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Large, fan-like pectoral fins.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are thoracic in position.
Identification Tips
Body Spots
Look for the characteristic five dark spots along the lateral line. While their intensity can vary, they are usually present and are a key identifier.
Coloration
Observe the overall body color. Males are typically more colorful with greenish-brown to reddish hues and bluish markings, especially on the head. Females are generally more subdued brown or green.
Snout Shape
Note the relatively pointed snout, which is typical for Symphodus species.
Pectoral Fin Spot
A small, often inconspicuous, black spot at the base of the pectoral fin can also aid in identification.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow coastal waters from 1 to 50 meters (3 to 164 feet), occasionally deeper.
- Environment
- Prefers rocky bottoms, seagrass beds (Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa), and areas with algal growth. Often found in crevices and among rocks, providing shelter.
- Geographic range
- Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent Eastern Atlantic Ocean, from Portugal to Morocco, including the Canary Islands and Madeira.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 50 gallons
- Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
- pH level: 8.1-8.4
- Hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibility: Generally compatible with other peaceful, similarly sized fish. Avoid keeping with aggressive species or very small, shy fish that might be outcompeted for food.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A sand bed is beneficial as they may bury themselves at night or when stressed. Good water quality and stable parameters are crucial.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeding typically occurs in spring and early summer. Active year-round in its natural habitat.
- Market price: N/A (not typically a commercial food fish)
- Commercial importance: none
- Taste: N/A
- Texture: N/A
- Nutritional value: N/A
Key Facts
Nest Buildersbehavior
Male Five-spotted Wrasses are known for building elaborate nests out of algae, which they meticulously guard and tend to after the female lays her eggs.
Protogynous Hermaphroditesbehavior
Like many wrasses, Symphodus roissali is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals are born as females and can later change sex to male.
Cleaner Fish Behaviorbehavior
Juvenile Five-spotted Wrasses have been observed engaging in cleaner fish behavior, removing parasites from larger fish.
Variable Colorationinteresting
The coloration of the Five-spotted Wrasse can vary significantly depending on age, sex, geographic location, and even mood, making identification sometimes challenging.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard care for live fish. They are not venomous and do not possess sharp spines that pose a significant threat. Handle gently to avoid stress or injury to the fish.
Similar Species
Axillary Wrasse
Symphodus mediterraneus
The Axillary Wrasse typically has a more elongated body and a prominent black spot in the axil (armpit) of the pectoral fin, which is usually larger and more distinct than the small spot on S. roissali. It also lacks the five distinct body spots.
Ocellated Wrasse
Symphodus ocellatus
The Ocellated Wrasse is generally smaller and has a very prominent ocellated (eye-like) spot on the operculum (gill cover), which is a key distinguishing feature not present in S. roissali. It also lacks the five body spots.
Goldsinny Wrasse
Ctenolabrus rupestris
The Goldsinny Wrasse has a more robust body and typically displays a prominent black spot at the base of the caudal fin and another on the anterior part of the dorsal fin. It lacks the five lateral spots of S. roissali.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Labridae
- Genus
- Symphodus
- Species
- Symphodus roissali
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