Five-spotted Wrasse
Symphodus roissali
Five-spotted Wrasse (Symphodus roissali) is a small eastern Atlantic–Mediterranean wrasse that lives in shallow coastal reefs and seagrass. Males can show vivid breeding colors and spotted patterning; it is generally more of a view species than a target fish.
.jpg){kind=link}
Identification points
- Usually shows five dark flank spots, including a distinct spot near the tail base
- Small wrasse with a pointed snout and continuous dorsal fin
- Males often have brighter blue-green tones and stronger orange/red markings in breeding condition
Habitat
Shallow rocky shores, algae-covered reefs, and seagrass beds, usually close to cover in warm temperate coastal waters; common around the Mediterranean and adjacent eastern Atlantic coasts.
Bait notes
Small pieces of shrimp, mussel, ragworm, or marine worm on fine tackle can tempt it; tiny soft plastics and micro-jigs may also work when fish are active. It is usually taken incidentally rather than as a prime game species.
Behavior
Diurnal and wary, it picks small crustaceans, worms, and mollusks from algae and bottom structure. Males become territorial during spawning and may guard nests in shallow sheltered areas.
Caution
Spines are small but can still nick fingers; handle carefully around rocky cover. Check local rules before keeping fish, as wrasses may have regional size or bag limits and some areas discourage harvest of small reef fish.
Fishing notes
Fish very light line and small hooks near rocks, weed edges, and calm gullies. Present baits close to cover and use short, subtle retrieves; avoid heavy splash and disturbance.