Axillary wrasse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Axillary wrasse |
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The axillary wrasse (Symphodus mediterraneus) is a type of fish that lives in the ocean. It belongs to a family of fish called wrasses, which are known for their bright colors and thick lips. This fish is found in the eastern part of the Atlantic Ocean and throughout the Mediterranean Sea.
About the Axillary Wrasse
The axillary wrasse is a small fish. It can grow up to about 18 centimeters (7 inches) long. However, most of these fish are usually around 12 centimeters (5 inches) long.
Where They Live
You can find the axillary wrasse in areas where there are lots of eelgrass beds. Eelgrass beds are like underwater meadows made of plants. These fish live at depths from 1 meter (3 feet) down to 50 meters (164 feet) below the surface. They are found near the coasts of Portugal and Morocco, and around the Azores and Madeira islands.
What They Eat and Do
Adult axillary wrasses mostly live in eelgrass beds. They often swim around in pairs. The male wrasses are special because they build nests for their eggs.
These fish have a varied diet. They mainly eat small sea creatures. This includes different types of mollusks like gastropods (snails) and bivalves (clams). They also munch on tubicolous worms, chitons, sea urchins, and bryozoans (tiny colonial animals).
When it's time to have babies, the axillary wrasse lays eggs. The male and female fish form distinct pairs during this breeding time.
Why They Are Important
The axillary wrasse is important to people in some local areas. It is caught and eaten as a food fish. People also enjoy fishing for it as a game fish. Sometimes, you might even see this fish in home aquariums.
