The ornate wrasse (Thalassoma pavo) is a vibrantly colored, small reef fish native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, easily recognized by its striking blue, green, and yellow patterns. While not a primary target for large-scale commercial fisheries, the ornate wrasse is commonly harvested in Mediterranean countries such as Italy, Greece, Spain, and Turkey, primarily for local consumption and the aquarium trade. These countries have a long tradition of small-scale, artisanal fishing, where ornate wrasse is often caught using traps, nets, or handlines along rocky coastal habitats. The species plays a minor but notable role in local fish markets and is valued for its beauty and ecological importance, though overfishing and habitat degradation have led to increased awareness and regulation in some regions.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.