Symphodus ocellatus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Symphodus ocellatus
photo by Patzner, R.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses)
Max. size:  18.5 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 81.7 g; max. reported age: 5 years
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 30 m
Distribution:  Eastern Atlantic: throughout the Mediterranean, Black Sea and Sea of Azov.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Adults are found near rocks and eel-grass beds. A nest of seaweed (Cystoseria) built and kept by male. Feed on bryozoans, hydroids, tubicolous, worms, shrimps, amphipods and mollusks. Males grow faster than females (Ref. 4742). Undergoes sex reversal (Ref. 4742). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 27 February 2014 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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