Mediterranean Sea - List of fishes

Formerly widespread along the European coasts, the angelshark is now one of the most endangered species in the world. This species, which can reach 2.50 meters in length, was a symbol of the Mediterranean Sea, but its population has declined over the years. Despite protection and regulation measures, it remains vulnerable to accidental catches linked to flatfish fishing. Angelsharks hide in the seabed during the day and hunt near the bottom at night, feeding primarily on flatfish and other benthic creatures. They undertake seasonal migrations for reproduction from north to south in oceanic areas.

It differs from other species of wrasses because of the elongated shape of it head. Those who live in the Posidonia meadows (underwater flowering plants) are entirely green. The male builds a nest of seaweed and gravel where it distributes the eggs until they hatch.

During breeding season, its color becomes brighter and it builds a large nest with plant debris. It attracts the attention of females by performing a characteristic swimming. It will mate with several of them and it will protect and ventilate the eggs until they hatch.

Its shape and color helps it hide perfectly among the underwater plants. There are similarities in the way it reproduces compared to seahorses. The male has no pocket, but it carries egg rows glued to a ventral furrow.

Its shape and color helps it hide perfectly among the underwater plants. There are similarities in the way it reproduces compared to seahorses. The male has no pocket, but it carries egg rows glued to a ventral furrow.

It is one of the most colorful Mediterranean fish. The female has a black spot on the dorsal fin. The stain will disappear and its color becomes more vivid when it will change sex (hermaphroditism protogynous). It is more abundant in the northern Mediterranean.