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ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse

Distribution : Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse is hard to miss on a Mediterranean dive. Always moving above seagrass meadows and rocks, it charms observers with its bright colours and curiosity. By searching the seabed for small prey, it contributes to the balance of these coastal ecosystems.

Habitat of Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse Habitat
Wreck, Sand, Seagrass meadow, Rocky habitat
Depth range of Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse Depth
1-100 m
Biological group of Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse Group
Ecological role of Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse Role
Predator

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

This slender fish, typical of Mediterranean coastal areas, has a slim, elongated body. Individuals show pronounced sexual dimorphism: females and juveniles have brownish colouring with a pale longitudinal stripe, while males display more contrasting green, blue and orange colours. The body is covered in fine scales and protected by mucus that reduces external threats.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It frequents shallow coastal areas, particularly Neptune grass meadows and rocky seabeds with plenty of hiding places. It occurs from the surface down to several tens of metres deep, moving actively in search of food.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

It is an opportunistic predator that mainly consumes small benthic invertebrates. Its diet includes crustaceans, molluscs, worms and sometimes small echinoderms. It captures prey by probing the substrate or dislodging them from algae and rocks.

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Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse

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Other species — Demersal fish

Black Seabream Two-banded seabream Gilthead Seabream Annular seabream Mediterranean Damselfish Brown Meagre Grey Wrasse Sharpsnout seabream

Same habitat and depth

Wreck species Sandy seabed species Seagrass meadow species Rocky seabed species

Same ecological role and depth

Predatory species

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DEPTH HABITAT PHYLA ECOLOGICAL ROLE

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