The ornate wrasse prefers warm waters, and in recent decades it has expanded its range in the Mediterranean, partly due to the increase in sea temperatures.

An interesting fact about this species is that dominant males can intensify their colours within seconds when another male enters their territory or during courtship displays, making their bright patterns even more striking.

In coastal Mediterranean waters, the ornate wrasse (Thalassoma pavo) faces several pressures mainly linked to human activity. Because it lives in very shallow rocky habitats, it is particularly vulnerable to coastal habitat degradation caused by shoreline construction, dredging, anchoring, and pollution. These activities can damage the rocky substrates and nearby seagrass areas that the species uses for feeding and shelter.

The ornate wrasse may also be affected by small-scale and recreational fishing, although it is not usually a primary commercial target. Additionally, plastic pollution and other contaminants in nearshore waters can impact the species directly or indirectly through the small invertebrates it feeds on. Intense tourism, boating, and diving activities in shallow coastal zones may further disturb local populations. While the species has benefited from warming sea temperatures, which have helped expand its distribution in the Mediterranean, continued degradation of coastal habitats could negatively affect its populations in the long term.