Thalassoma pavo reaches 25 cm. Males are striking turquoise-green with orange belly zebra-striped in blue, and a pink band behind the head. Females more subdued red-orange with a dark spot. Protogynous hermaphrodite. A tropical species expanding into the northwestern Mediterranean since the 2000s with warming. Iconic climate indicator.
Frequently asked questions
How big is the Ornate wrasse?
Ornate wrasse (Thalassoma pavo) reaches 15–25 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Ornate wrasse?
Ornate wrasse is found between 1–150 m deep.
Is the Ornate wrasse dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Ornate wrasse?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Ornate wrasse?
Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.