The axillary wrasse (Symphodus mediterraneus) is a species of wrasse native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean from the Azores and Madeira to the coasts of Portugal to Morocco and then along the coastal waters of the Mediterranean Sea. This species can be found in eelgrass beds at depths from 1to. It can reach 18cm (07inches) in standard length, though most do not exceed 12cm (05inches). This species is important to local peoples as a food fish and is also sought as a game fish. It can also be found in the aquarium trade.
Adults are found mainly in eel-grass beds. Often in pairs. Males nest-makers. Feed mainly on mollusks, gastropods, bivalves, tubicolous worms, chitons, sea urchins and bryozoans.[1] Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding